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Patricia Tourancheau, a crime reporter and author of a book on the robbery, told the BBC that Paris courts were busy with large terrorism trials for several years, which created a backlog.

"That is why we are changing the law to help clear the backlog, end the use of asylum hotels and save billions of pounds for the taxpayer."

She said the current situation was "totally unacceptable" and that ministers would aim to clear the backlog with measures such as doubling examiner training capacity and reintroducing overtime pay incentives.

A shortage of training instructors is contributing to the backlog of learner drivers waiting to sit their practical test.

"Supported housing plays an indispensable role in cutting NHS waiting list backlogs, and reducing pressure on social care, temporary accommodation, and other vital public services," the open letter says.