My experience is that that has limited validity. I wear varifocals, but for the past few years have had some single focus lenses set a bit further out than reading lenses. The motivation is to be able to see the top of a large screen, which is difficult with varifocals as you have to cant your head back. These intermediate lenses are very comfortable around the house, and fine for walking around to the local shop. However they are not adequate for driving. I could probably pass the UK test for legality, but I do need sharp vision further off to anticipate signs and hazards.

BTW - most reading is at sub-foot distance? I think not!