The Government are today publishing their response to the consultation on proposals to review the list of “designated bodies”.

Under section 19 of the Transport Act 1985, the Secretary of State has the power to designate bodies who may issue permits under that section to eligible community transport operators. These “section 19” permits allow the holder to operate transport services for hire or reward, subject to certain conditions, without the need for a full public service vehicle operator’s licence.

The Government published the 12-week consultation on the 21 July 2009, and intend final proposals to come into force around the middle of 2010. The proposals would apply to England, Scotland and Wales.

Copies of the formal response are available on the Departments website (www.dft.gov.uk) and in the Libraries of both Houses.