John MacDonald: We need to do a much better job of training drivers

I don't know about you, but when I went for my driver’s licence back in the day I reckon I would’ve been mortified if I failed. These days, though, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

Because, these days, every second person who does their practical driving test fails.

Which says to me that we’re doing a hopeless job of training drivers. The Government sees it differently, though, and it’s taking the easy option and it’s going to make it free for people to re-sit their tests.

Tim Dower: I thought I had a chance to compliment some govt policy, maybe next time

When I first heard what the Transport Minister is doing in the driving licence area yesterday my heart soared.

At last, something I can hand on heart say is a good thing - sensible policy - an incentive for everyone to get fully licensed.

Surely, that has to be good, when you think we've got at least 40,000 unlicensed and untested drivers out there every day of the week.