HC Deb 19 July 1967 vol 750 cc2131-2
70. Mr. Costain

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that civilian aircraft on charter to the Ministry of Defence have backward-facing seats as a safety precaution and if he will give general directions to the British Overseas Airways Corporation and British European Airways to provide the same safety measure for all civilian passengers.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

The Answer to the first part of the Question is, Yes. As regards the second part of the Question, a general direction would be inappropriate, and there is insufficient evidence to justify making rearward-facing seats mandatory on United Kingdom registered aircraft. We are closely watching an extensive research programme in the United States into aircraft crashworthiness. We will consider the implications of the results of this research.

Mr. Costain

Does not the Minister of State think it somewhat ironical that the Defence Department considers that, for the safety of Service personnel, these backward-facing seats are desirable? Why should there not be the same safety standards for civilian passengers? Is it a question of education? Would it not be better for his Department to do something to educate passengers?

Mr. Mallalieu

I understand the hon. Member's point. Very extensive experiments are being done in the United States. We are watching them with the deepest interest, and will make up our minds when we have the results.

Mr. Ronald Bell

Will the Minister bear in mind that some passengers may prefer to travel facing forwards, and that it is really their business?