Diabetic obtains hgv licence on appeal
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• The question of whether a diabetic being treated with daily injections of insulin could be considered fit to drive a heavy goods vehicle came under review in Birmingham on Wednesday when Mr George Worthington. of Ledbury, appealed to the West Midland LA, Mr John Else, against a decision to refuse his hgv driving. licence on medical grounds.
It was said in court that a doctor's medical certificate which accompanied the application form indicated that Mr Worthington could be regarded fit to hold only a "restricted licence". This was because insulin injections could in certain circumstances produce unconsciousness without warning.
However, Mr N. Carless, representing Mr Worthington, told the LA that in the 15 years Mr Worthington had been employed by Ledbury Preserves Ltd he had not suffered from side effects nor had he been compelled to take time off work as a result of his diabetes.
Company transport manager Mr G. B. Cale said Mr Worthington was employed as a driver of a Class III vehicle on a regular route and did not have to face any exertion such as unloading or changing wheels.
After hearing the evidence, Mr Else said he would grant the application provided the company would notify him immediately if Mr Worthington left its employment or changed the pattern of his work, and that Mr Worthington visited his doctor every three months and obtained a medical certificate annually.