I can't help it, they even get a choice. Automatic-only licence, or take a few minutes during the first lesson to learn how to move the stick and operate the pedal with the third leg.
Automatics here are rare and expensive, and are seen as something for, well, people who shouldn't be driving to begin with.
More are popping up though, because of hybrid cars and some companies making (dual clutch) robotic gearboxes standard equipment.