Sean, I agree with most of what you have put.
I took my first driving test 3 weeks after my 17th birthday but failed because the instructor had a problem with his eyes
By the time I was 18 1/2 I had passed my IAM advanced driving test, won various driving competitions (on the road) and also had a motorbike licence. The proposed rule changes are crap. Sure some drivers could do with more lessons before being allowed out unaccompanied and the 10pm ban would stop the chavs congregating at the local drive trough but would 120 hours of tuition really do anything other than line the pockets of the instructors.
For example. Apart from using approved instructors, how can you prove you have done the hours required?
When I was 17 I was driving every day with a friend sitting beside me who had a licence but no car. The result of this was that I got at least 3 hours driving every day going everywhere at all sorts of times so gained a lot of experience. Even today, a 17 year old cannot do this due to the 3 year rule they have.
Also, if this is what they have planned for car drivers, expect motorbikes to be outlawed completely soon!
As for mobiles, more police are needed to enfoce the rules. I use a handsfree kit and don't have any problems. Others seem to think that holding the phone in your hand and having it on loud speaker qualifies as "hands free". Don't ban them, they are useful but enforce the rules properly.
Zero Alcohol, like you I will drive on one but ride on none.