Sometimes our bureaucrats make the most baffling decisions.

For years, motorcyclists have taken their tests in Oxford, for many of them just a short ride from their homes.

Now, the whole test procedure is being reorganised and learners will have to travel as far as Swindon or Newbury to be examined.

Can you imagine anything more dangerous or daft?

Riders with little experience will be forced to travel along two of the most dangerous roads in the county - the A34 and the A420.

These two busy, congested roads have seen numerous accidents over the years, some fatal, and present a daily challenge to even the most skilled drivers.

It is unbelievable that the Driving Standards Agency should want to put riders with little expertise at such risk.

With the centre at Banbury also closing, motorcycle tests will no longer be offered anywhere in Oxfordshire.

The reason given by the agency - that it has been unable to find suitable sites in Oxford or Banbury - is pathetic in the extreme.

We cannot believe that in the whole of Oxfordshire, there is not one place where a centre could be established.

We don't think agency staff have looked very far.

We suspect it is as usual a case of money talking - costs will clearly be saved if tests can be concentrated at fewer centres.

But should we really be putting lives at risk to save a few thousand pounds a year?