§ Dr. Roger Thomasasked the Minister of Transport how many road accidents there were each year in which vehicles towing trailers or mobile caravans were involved for the past five years; what examination he has made of the methods whereby such trailing vehicles attached to the towing vehicle are fully satisfactory; and if he will introduce methods and techniques to improve safety and eliminate the dangers of detachment in motion.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe numbers of accidents of all kinds involving vehicles towing trailers or caravans over the last five years for which figures are available are:
1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 Towing trailers 1,119 1,174 1,241 1,180 1,373 Towing caravans 337 357 362 380 387 No figures are available for trailer detachments.
The Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations require all accessories 514W including couplings, to be in such condition that no danger is caused. Most couplings on trailers and caravans in fact meet the requirements of British or International Standards, although it is not obligatory for them to do so. I am not aware of any evidence which would justify further Government action.