§ 14. Mr. Roger Kingasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he is prepared to consider the compulsory fitment of rear seat belts in passenger cars.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe are considering this matter, but we are not yet ready to make a decision.
§ Mr. KingIs my hon. Friend aware that about 5,000 new cars come on to our roads every day? Does she agree that the fitting of rear seat safety belts is a proven safety device which should be encouraged voluntarily, not compulsorily?
§ Mrs. ChalkerI am aware of what my hon. Friend says. We estimate that at the moment between 5 and 10 per cent. of new cars already have rear seat belts fitted. I assured the Select Committee last month that I would consider its report before making a final decision. I believe that the report will be forthcoming fairly shortly, and I hope soon to be in a position to make such a decision.