HC Deb 19 April 1993 vol 223 cc3-4
2. Dr. Lynne Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will introduce legislation to require all new cars to be fitted with airbags.

The Minister for Roads and Traffic (Mr. Kenneth Carlisle)

Legislation on the compulsory fitting of airbags would have to be initiated by the European Commission. There is no restriction on their use in cars in the United Kingdom, but seat belts, which are effective and cheaper to fit than air bags, will remain the main personal restraint feature.

Dr. Jones

In view of the Minister's concern about road and passenger safety and of the likely delay in any legislation being implemented, is not it clear that more people will be looking to public transport? Will he therefore do battle with the Treasury over its nonsensical rules, which are preventing the Midland Metro scheme from going ahead? It is self-financing and will reduce the costs of accidents by £6 million in addition to creating 1,100 jobs.

Mr. Carlisle

That was a question which certainly had a lot to do with airbags—or windbags, if I may say so. Clearly, it is up to the individual how he or she wishes to travel, but, when people travel, by far the best thing that they can do to secure their safety is to wear a safety belt.

Dame Elaine Kellett-Bowman

May I say that my question is to do with airbags. Research currently being undertaken shows that the majority of accidents come from side impact. Will he promote research into protection from side impact, which is now more important than front or rear impact?

Mr. Carlisle

My hon. Friend makes a very good point. It is the design of the car which can now do most to prevent injury. The Transport Research Laboratory is researching the design of a car that would deal with side impact. We certainly intend to continue with that, but, as part of the single market, we have to persuade everyone else in Europe to go along with such measures. We are determined that more people will wear safety belts and we are making progress in that respect. I also welcome the fact that more United Kingdom models are now fitted with airbags, which offers genuine customer choice.