HC Deb 11 April 1962 vol 657 cc1317-8
19. Mr. Costain

asked the Minister of Transport what proposals he has to encourage motorists to carry first-aid kits in their cars.

Mr. Marples

The Highway Code urges motorists to carry first-aid kit in their cars and to learn its use; this advice has been stressed in the road safety campaigns which are run by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.

Mr. Costain

Is the Minister satisfied that many motorists in fact carry first-aid sets? Would he consider when reprinting the Highway Code giving some indication of what the motorist should carry in a first-aid kit?

Mr. Marples

Yes, but many things are put into the Highway Code and they are not always observed. For example, a driver is told Be prepared: Carry simple first-aid materials in his car and learn first aid from the St. John Ambulance Association. St. Andrew's Ambulance Association or the British Red Cross Society". Not many drivers do that, although I am certain that my hon. Friend has done so.

Mr. A. Lewis

Could not the Minister make a suggestion to manufacturers of cars that this is something which they could include in the car at wholesale cost when the car is new? It would be an advantage which would not cost much originally and it could go with the car when it was sold.

Mr. Marples

Yes, but there is not much point in having a Red Cross outfit in a car if people do not know how to use it. Otherwise they will be drinking the iodine and putting brandy on a cut.