Testing times for learner drivers

Dear Sir,

The report “Tougher road for trainees as driving test rates drop” (Gulf Times, November 7) highlighted an issue that is of great importance to Qatar residents, especially to the newly-arriving expatriates.
Road safety is one of the government’s highest priorities and several initiatives are being taken to improve it. Accordingly, driving tests have to be made tougher and learner drivers need to learn all traffic rules well to be eligible for the licence.   
But tests should be conducted in line with international standards and a fit and proper assessment should be applied in selection procedures.
The Gulf Times report quotes a supervisor as saying that earlier three to four people out of 35 would pass the driving test in a day. Now, the number has come down to two out of 50. That means 96% of learner drivers are being disqualified now.
Generally in any examination, 10-20% candidates or maybe more get disqualified but is it normal for 96% of people attempting the test failing to make it? That figure is hard to believe.
If 96% of people attempting a test fail, one can only assume that there is a flaw in their training and preparation process. This could mean that the trainers are not very good and not as per the official requirements.
Authorities concerned must conduct a comprehensive survey to find the cause and to resolve the problem.
Many people, after being recruited to work as drivers in Qatar, face major problems because of the difficulties in getting a licence after completing all formalities and undergoing the necessary training. This also upsets those who have recruited them after going through many processes.
For expatriates living with their families, owning a vehicle is not a luxury in Qatar, it is a necessity as public transport is still in its infancy.

MH, (Full name and address supplied)

Discount offers

Dear Sir,

Over the weekend, a store ran a one-day promotion for a high-end smartphone, offering a huge discount. The promotion stated the standard line “Until stock lasts”. But the stock was apparently so limited that around 10am it was finished. Many people had found the huge discount very attractive and flooded the store only to be told that “No more stocks”. I know this kind of  promotion is quite legal but if a store keeps a low stock intentionally, then it isn’t fair to customers.

Saqib Javed, (Address supplied)

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