The Department for Transport (DfT) has published its latest Motoring Services Strategy, with the aim of improving the digital services currently available for fleets. The 27-page report explores work in the DVLA, DVSA and the VCA and makes a number of potential suggestions and proposals for the continued development of the department. Particular reference was made to account responses that occurred at a consultation held towards the end of 2015, with the BVRLA among those contributing. Five key commitments of the report include: ´ The reform of the Drivers Medical Group. This decision was substantially influenced by the Glasgow Bin Lorry deaths of 2014. ´ The simplification of driver record updates. ´ The increase and development of relationships with commercial users, including professional fleets, as well as the introduction of new digital services. ´ The possible merging of both DVSA and DVLA call centres. ´ The improvement of current LGV licencing processes. The DVSA will soon roll out a new Operator Excellence scheme for trusted fleet operators: this will be based on the current earned recognition pilot scheme. Gerry Keaney, chief executive, BVRLA, said: 'When we responded to the consultation in January this year, we urged the Government to think about fleets as well as customers. It is therefore pleasing to see Lord Ahmad pledge to work with commercial fleets and drivers to promote best practice. 'We welcome the news that the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will work to introduce new improved digital channels for accessing their services. We will be pushing for this to include the ability for fleets to pay Vehicle Excise Duty for multiple years, and to apply for bulk refunds online.î The report admitted that some of the current services were 'not designed with fleet managers in mind,î and also noted that the bodies were now more committed to strengthening relationships with corporate users at a 'practical level.î The strategy also detailed a commitment to move HGV testing to a mixed economy inclusive of both public and private provision. James Firth, the Freight Transport Association's head of licensing policy and compliance information, said: 'We are pleased that Government has committed to have a proper look at allowing non-government employees to examine the LGV annual roadworthiness test _ many FTA members have been asking for this for some years.î
