SAFE drive campaigner Anne Ravenhill is protesting at government plans to allow anyone to teach driving theory.

From mid-summer, the Government is introducing a separate classroom theory test which a driver will have to pass, as well as the ordinary driving test, before they can get a licence.

Driving instructors have to be approved and registered, but the teachers of theory can set up without restriction.

Mrs Ravenhill, of Brunshaw Avenue, Burnley, said: "Even the local window cleaner, no offence to window cleaners, can set up to teach the theory.

"There is one particular driving instructor who is to be struck off the register because he assaulted a pupil who could also teach the theory when he comes out of prison.

"Would you want your children to be taught by someone like him?'' The new theory test, to be introduced in July, will involve 35 written questions on a candidate's knowledge and understanding of the rules of the road.

Burnley MP, Peter Pike, is backing her new campaign and expressed her concerns to the minister responsible for road safety, Steven Norris.

In reply, Mr Norris said the Government's approach was to avoid raising barriers to business activities unless the costs imposed could be clearly shown to be justified by the benefits produced.

He said: "I am not persuaded that it would be sensible or necessary to oblige persons in a wide range of professions, who have no intention of offering ordinary practical driving instruction, to qualify as Approved Driving Instructors before they can offer driving-related lectures or training aids."

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