Government reviewing CTA’s proposal to tackle minibus driver shortages

The Department for Transport (DfT) is actively reviewing CTA’s proposal for a more accessible route into minibus driving, Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP has confirmed.

The announcement came during a House of Commons adjournment debate on Tuesday 3 November 2026, secured by Freddie van Mierlo MP, which focused on the growing shortage of qualified Community Transport minibus drivers.

Responding to the debate, the Minister acknowledged the pressures facing the sector and CTA’s work to develop a practical proposal for change. He confirmed:

Securing Community Transport’s Future: Our D1 White Paper

By David Kelly, Head of Policy and Campaigns, CTA

It’s a proud moment for us to be able to share with you the Community Transport movement’s White Paper on changes to minibus driver licensing rules.

Developing our proposal has been a mammoth task and a real team effort. I’d like to thank all of my colleagues, and all of the CTA members, who’ve helped make it happen.

Invite your MP to our Westminster Event

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben viewed across the River Thames under a bright blue, cloudy sky.

Help us advocate for D1 reform, ask your MP to attend our event

We’re encouraging CTA member organisations to email their local MP and invite them to our Westminster reception, whether or not they are able to attend the event themselves.

MPs are more likely to attend when invited by an organisation from their constituency. By inviting your MP, you can help us show that minibus driver licensing reform matters to communities across the UK and build parliamentary support for change.

To invite your MP:

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