DRIVING examiners are set to stage a 48-hour strike over a dispute regarding working conditions.

The Public and Commercial Services union have announced the walk-out for December 4.

This is the same day that a new driving test is launched which will see independent driving time increased to 20 minutes and candidates following directions from a sat-nav.

The union say that examiners are being told to work longer and harder for no extra pay when the new tests are introduced.

The PCS has said that up to 2,000 of its members will take part in the walk-out, warning that thousands of driving tests will be affected.

An overtime ban and work to rule will also be held from November 23, which the union warn could lead to last minute cancellations of tests across England.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "The actions of the Department for Transport in trying to force detrimental changes on to our members has backfired.

"Our members whose jobs are about ensuring our roads are safe for drivers and pedestrians have voted overwhelmingly to demonstrate that these changes are unacceptable.

"Ministers can avoid this strike action by instructing their officials in the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to scrap the plans and re-enter serious negotiations with PCS.

"If this strike goes ahead the blame lies squarely with the Government."