§ 22. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what information he has demonstrating the protective value of crash helmets to 340 motor-cyclists involved in accidents; and whether there is a supply of these helmets sufficient for all motor-cyclists.
§ Mr. MolsonMedical research shows that the wearing of the best type of helmet greatly reduces the likelihood of fracture of the skull in accidents and makes head injuries generally less severe; and sample figures taken before crash helmets were common in civilian use indicated that the incidence of head injuries in motor-cycle accidents was over 50 per cent. among civilian riders but only about 27 per cent. among Army riders wearing crash helmets. I understand from my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade that supplies of crash helmets appear to be keeping pace with the present demand.
§ Mr. SorensenWhat percentage of motor-cyclists is it estimated wear these crash helmets, and can something be done to secure a large production of these helmets at a reasonable price to encourage their purchase by motor-cyclists?
§ Mr. MolsonI am afraid that I have no figures to show how many motorcyclists wear them, but steps have been taken by the President of the Board of Trade to make these helmets readily available; since 13th November they have been on open general licence for importation as there are certain good French and German designs