Ministers examining ways or reducing congestion on the roads without introducing a pricing system or building more may tackle the issue by introducing tougher driving tests. According to MPs, a more rigorous test could help to improve the flow of traffic while reducing the number of accidents. In its report, the Commons transport committee said that poor behaviour on the roads led to increased congestion.

It added that road accidents and inappropriate driving behaviour both contributed to a negative affect on the flow of traffic. Transport Committee chairwoman, Louise Ellman, said that managing road space more efficiently was vital for the UK’s economy. It is estimated that by 2025 delays, late deliveries and missed appointments caused by traffic congestion could cost the nation around £24 billion annually.

Ministers said that motorists were not always keeping themselves up to date with changes to the Highway Code after they passed their driving tests. The committee said that it was considering creating a new application for mobile phones which would provide information on road regulations.

Within the report, MPs have asked the government to assess the traffic flow on the M4 after it was decided to remove bus lanes. If it finds that traffic flow has not improved then it should consider reinstating the lanes. The document also says that the Department for Transport should monitor a system whereby the hard shoulders on motorways are opened up for use by vehicles during peak travel times.

Mike Penning, the roads minister, said the government would respond to the report after examining it.