There seems to be a lot of confusion about what constitutes an emergency stop (there is also a “controlled stop” in DT1).
My understanding is that the EU has stated that a controlled/emergency stop must be carried out on all driving tests, but in the UK this has been interpreted to mean any sort of stop where the candidate has to control the car to avoid hitting something. So although some tests will involve the familiar “emergency” version (1 out of every 3), the rest will incorporate pulling up behind a parked vehicle or other obstruction. In fact, this is already done, prior to the “moving off at an angle” procedure candidates are already expected to demonstrate.
In other words, nothing has changed as far as the test is concerned – the only change is the interpretation of what constitutes a “controlled stop” in order to satisfy the EU directive. Every test will involve some sort of controlled stop, just as it currently does – either a full-blown one, or a stop behind a parked car. It’s no big deal.
Of course, understanding this doesn’t allow for the chance to criticise the DSA and forums are incandescent with indignation and condemnation. I love this particular comment from one of them (all spelling and grammar left intact):
You only had to the school head missus, who when asked if schools got more for challenged pupils. Gave an answer even humphis could net believe [radio 4] she also said one hundred percent of her pupils when on to uni. But she was not questioned on that statment
Answers on a postcard, please…!