That’s the finding of the Transport Committee as it releases a report on the recently reorganised DVLA & DSA, saying that they must work harder to deliver a better service for all, including business customers, whilst also ensuring that action is taken on “copycat” websites for driver services.
Louise Ellman MP, Transport Committee chair, added: ‘DVLA and DVSA are important for delivering essential services related to tax, licensing, testing, and vehicle safety. The Department for Transport must ensure that its current re-organisation programme for these agencies delivers high quality services that benefit everyone.
‘The recent problems experienced by motorists when road tax renewal went online demonstrates the importance of responding to change, having clear communication with the public and an effective contingency plan to maintain confidence.
‘We welcome greater information sharing across the motoring agencies and the expansion of online services that we found were well-liked by many customers. However, the motoring agencies must continue to meet the needs of those customers who can’t access or use digital services.’
She added that the Government must do more to warn motorists about misleading “copycat” websites that charge for services provided for free by motoring agencies.
Earlier this year the DVLA reiterated its warning to always use the official GOV.UK site when applying for a driving licence or vehicle tax online.
The caution, which follows the organisation's recent warning over third-party driving licence reminders, came as the Government, led by Cabinet Office’s Government Digital Service (GDS), investigated reports of organisations actively misleading users about their services or acting illegally.
‘We also call on DVLA to do more to explain the legal basis for the sharing of personal data with organisations engaged in parking enforcement and the steps it takes to deal with private parking companies caught misusing personal data supplied by the motoring agencies.’
