HC Deb 30 July 1984 vol 65 cc11-2
12. Mr. Gareth Wardell

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if the full figures are now available for the first year of compulsory seat belt wearing to indicate the effects on car occupant casualty rates; and if he will make a statement.

8. Mr. Sheerman

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what was the average wearing level for front seat belts during the first year of compulsory seat belt use; and what wearing rates have been recorded for fatal, serious and slight front seat car occupant casualties and for those where the injury severity was unknown.

Mrs. Chalker

Seat belt wearing rates have remained close to 95 per cent. throughout the first year. Among fatal and serious casualties, 75 per cent. were reported as wearing seat belts and 9 per cent. not. The remaining 16 per cent. were unknown. Wearing rates amongst slightly injured casualties are not yet available.

The latest figures for total casualty savings are still those published on 5 April last, covering the first 11 months of compulsory wearing. Compared with the previous year there has been a reduction of more than 7,000 fatal and serious front seat casualties.

Mr. Wardell

In view of the fact that more than 6,000 children are being injured each year in the rear seats of cars, are any steps being considered by the Government to provide for safer carriage of children in the rear seats of passenger vehicles?

Mrs. Chalker

The hon. Gentleman knows that I have considerable sympathy for his view. Parents are in the best position to know what is best for their children and the hon. Gentleman will appreciate the practical difficulties, from his own experience. I should like parents to take the advice contained in the leaflet "Child Safety in Cars" and, wherever possible, to restrain children by using a booster cushion and an adult belt in rear seats. But it is a matter for parents to decide what is best for their own children.

Mr. Moate

In view of the superb figures of casualty saving, would it not be a commendable exercise in humility if all those who opposed compulsory seat belt wearing were publicly to accept that they were wrong? Would it not be sad if we were to spend as long arguing about compulsory rear seat belt wearing as we did over front seat belts, when so many casualties have been avoided?

Mrs. Chalker

Nobody is more happy that I at the substantial reduction in fatalities, serious injuries and minor injuries. I must say to my hon. Friend that it is interesting how many letters have been sent to me by former opponents of compulsory seat belt wearing, thanking the House for passing the legislation and saving the lives of relatives and others. I am sure that the House will want to consider that effect if and when it considers a further measure.