New driving licence rules, fuel duty cuts and Oxford Street car ban set for October

A suite of road-safety measures will roll out in October, starting with graduated driving licences in Northern Ireland that impose a mandatory six-month learner period and prohibit night driving for drivers under 24, targeting the disproportionate involvement of 17-23-year-olds in serious collisions. In response to diesel prices nearing £2 per litre, the government’s Autumn Budget is expected to cut fuel duty, offering relief to motorists nationwide.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said all options are being examined, while Chancellor John Healey may also tweak car tax and zero-emission vehicle mandates. In London, Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan confirmed that Oxford Street, along with parts of Regent, Bond and Great Portland Streets, will become vehicle-free from 26 October, a move supported by local businesses to boost foot traffic. Transport for London has already begun preparatory works for the pedestrian-only zone. These combined actions aim to improve safety, reduce fuel costs and reshape a major shopping thoroughfare.