HC Deb 23 June 1976 vol 913 cc1587-8
11. Sir J. Langford-Holt

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what negotiations have taken place nationally and within the Common Market with a view to introducing standard heights for car bumpers; and whether he will make a statement.

Dr. Gilbert

Proposals for international standards for car bumpers, including their height, are being considered this week by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. Several European Community member States are taking part in this work. The Department is in touch with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Ltd. about the British contribution to these discussions.

Sir J. Langford-Holt

I thank the Minister for appearing to take a slight step forward in this matter. Will he not accept that although international agreement is vital in the ultimate, it is not helped by our being at sixes and sevens in this country? In the absence of international agreement, we should now decide what standard heights we are to have in this country.

Dr. Gilbert

I disagree. I do not think that it is in anybody's interests to set a national standard which might have to be changed very shortly if we get an international agreement. That would be counter-productive. We need international agreement on a safe bumper height.