The proposals follow a consultation process and form part of the Department for Transport's commitment to provide better regulation of the road haulage and passenger transport industries, outlined in the 'Future of Transport' White Paper.

Dr Ladyman said: "I want to cut red tape for the road haulage and passenger transport industries whilst maintaining safety standards. These proposals will reduce administrative burdens associated with licensing and build upon efficiency improvements already made by the Vehicle and Operator Service Agency (VOSA)."

The changes include:

• a single traffic commissioner for operators based in more than one traffic area;
• a simplified fee structure with most licence fees being merged with the fee for annual roadworthiness tests;
• a commitment to abolish windscreen discs after the roll-out of new enforcement technology.

Overall these changes are expected to save the industries around £15 million a year.