Haven't read the consultation - recently read the consultation on motorcycle learners, which was basically, "here's what we've already decided we're going to do to make minor tweaks, ignoring the obvious change which could actually make a big improvement, now please tell us what you think, preferably agreeing with us via the yes ladder, or not because we've already made our minds up". Don't expect this to be much different, other than that learning to drive a car does not have a so-called "progressive" route.
If there is to be a mandatory minimum flying hours requirement, that would be a minimum number of professional driving lessons. How many hours of lessons did Maureen from Driving School have? Did that make her a good driver? If a candidate is taught to drive by his Dad, who happens to be a Police Class 1 driver, how many paid lessons would he need in order to demonstrate that he had reached the required standard?
Assuming that the standard driving test is "fit for purpose" (perhaps a bit of a stretch, but if not, perhaps the consultation has identified the wrong problem and decided upon the wrong solution), it determines whether or not the candidate has reached the standard of competence appropriate to be licenced to drive solo as a fully qualified driver. Does any of this make the blindest bit of difference if you are from a culture where your cousin takes your driving test for you, and the examiners are told to keep quiet?
What is the problem that putting roadblocks in the way of the candidate having the opportunity to demonstrate his competence seeks to solve?
N.B. Becoming an airline pilot is a very different proposition. There will always be a balance between safety (ensuring a high level of competence) and the practicalities of training. However, it does serve to highlight the biggest reason that the standard of driving on the roads is so poor - drivers are not subject to periodic re-testing or re-training.
Appropriate testing, and periodic re-testing are (or would be) a very good thing. Mandatory commercial training, regardless of the candidates current level of competence, not so much.
If you need training to pass the test, you need training to pass the test. If you don't need training to pass the test, why require training to take the test?
