HC Deb 23 February 1987 vol 111 cc5-6
4. Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will report progress on the consultations about fitting of speed governors to coaches.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mr. Peter Bottomley)

The Department has been actively involved in the preparation of a British Standard for speed limiters. We expect to be able to consult interested parties on regulations based on a draft British Standard within the next two months.

Mr. Heathcoat-Amory

Is my hon. Friend aware that the tachograph record is used on the continent as a way of making on-the-spot speed checks, which is simple and quick and avoids the need for additional equipment? Would that not be a better way of enforcing speed limits for buses and coaches than requiring operators to fit these expensive new fangled speed governors?

Mr. Bottomley

My hon. Friend will accept that if a speed limiter is in operation there cannot be an offence. It is also worth noting that speed limiters are also required in France. I am advised that by themselves tachographs are not sufficient evidence for a prosecution for speeding.

Mr. Janner

I recognise the importance of a limit being placed on the speeds of coaches and buses, but do not many of the worst accidents happen at fairly low speeds, well below those speeds which would be achieved through the fitting of governors? Is the Minister aware that in my constituency a child was killed about 10 days ago on a road used by buses, coaches and cars, but where there was an insufficient layby area for coaches to pull in to collect and deliver children? Will he consider all aspects of that matter, including those points highlighted by the Anstey lane disaster?

Mr. Bottomley

The hon. and learned Gentleman has made a very important point, that 80 per cent. of injuries and deaths on the roads occur in built-up areas where the maximum speed limits applicable in countryside areas do not apply. When my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State publishes the new "Highway Code", he will draw attention to the simple rules that will eliminate virtually all injuries and deaths on our roads. I hope that those responsible for children will ensure that children are under control, and that when they reach the age of discretion they are properly trained. I know that bus and coach drivers will do all that they can to ensure that they do not kill or injure children.

Mr. Adley

In contradistinction to the point made by my hon. Friend the Member for Wells (Mr. HeathcoatAmory), will my hon. Friend press ahead on that matter as fast as he can? Will he confirm the Government's commitment? Does he share the view expressed by my hon. Friend the Member for Wallasey (Mrs. Chalker) that the driving of some coaches on our motorways is little less than intimidation? Will he confirm that, in addition to governors, seat belts, flammability, and other design features are receiving the Department's attention?

Mr. Bottomley

Yes, Sir.