DRIVING TEST candidates across Tayside and Fife are being advised to turn up as scheduled on Thursday despite the threat of strike action by examiners.

The Driving Standards Agency is promising that anyone whose test does not go ahead will be able to claim out-of-pocket expenses and get a new date for their test as quickly as possible.

The examiners are expected to walk out as part of a campaign against below-inflation pay awards being mounted by members of the Public and Commercial Services union.

Across the UK, up to 100,000 PCS members in 10 government departments and agencies are expected to take part in the one-day strike on April 24. The union claims workers are facing cuts in their living standards.

Driving examiners held industrial action last month, which had a mixed result in Tayside and Fife. Some people turned up to find their tests cancelled, while others were able to go ahead.

Agency chief executive Rosemary Thew said, “Not all examiners are members of the PCS union and even if they are, we cannot be sure that they will not turn up for work.

“We therefore want candidates to attend so that practical tests can be delivered if possible. Theory tests are not affected and will be taking place as planned.”

If no examiner is available for a test, a new date will be booked by the agency and the candidate will be sent an out-of-pocket expenses form along with details of the new test.

Anyone who fails to turn up will not be able to claim expenses and will have to re-book the test themselves.

Call centres and other Driving Standards Agency offices may also be affected by the strike. On the day anyone wishing to book a practical test should use the online booking service at www.direct.gov.uk

The PCS action is also expected to result in disruption to Jobcentre Plus and benefits offices.