§ 21. Mr. Ashtonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the latest annual figures for fatal accidents on farms due to the overturning of tractors.
§ Mr. Peter MillsIn 1971 there were 28 such fatalities in England and Wales.
§ Mr. AshtonIs not the figure of 28 a shocking number for this type of accident? Instead of waiting until 1977 to compel the fitting of safety cabs to tractors, will not the Parliamentary Secretary bring in the necessary legislation now, as these accidents often occur miles from a farmhouse and injured people may lie for two or three hours before anyone knows that there has been an accident?
§ Mr. MillsI share the hon. Gentleman's concern, but something is being done, as tractor cabs are now being fitted with safety and roll-over bars. In time, this will lead to the required reduction in accidents. No one is more concerned than I am, for I come from the South-West where this is a major problem.
§ Mr. Edwin WainwrightWill the hon. Gentleman take into account that the maintenance of tractors is often well below par? Will he introduce measures to make sure that tractors are tested at least once every three years?
§ Mr. MillsThat is an interesting suggestion, but this is a matter of education, and that we are always seeking to encourage.