§ 2.35 p.m.
THE EARL OF NORTHESKMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will consider introducing legislation to make it compulsory for the riders of motor-cycles, mopeds and scooters which are not equipped with a windscreen, to protect their eyes with goggles, or a visor rigidly attached to a crash helmet.]
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT (LORD CHESHAM)My Lords, it appears that the number of accidents caused because riders of motor-cycles, mopeds and scooters do not wear goggles or visors is not significant, and my right honourable friend would not, therefore, feel justified in making the wearing of goggles or visors compulsory. Most riders already wear goggles for long 2 journeys or when travelling at speed. But there are circumstances, as, for example, in heavy traffic in wet weather, when it may be safer for them not to do so.
THE EARL OF NORTHESKMy Lords, may I thank my noble friend for his very understandable Answer, and ask him to ask his right honourable friend whether he would consider the possibility of using publicity, as was done very successfully for the wearing of "crash hats", to show the public the advisability of these riders wearing goggles or a visor at all times?
§ LORD CHESHAMMy Lords, I would certainly agree that it was desirable to wear goggles whenever possible, and I shall be pleased to convey my noble friend's words to my right honourable friend. I was very glad to see recently that this particular point was covered in the motor-cycling Press.