§ Miss Fookesasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take steps to require improvements in the design of seat belts in such a way as to make them safer and more appropriate for women users, in the manner of the scheme, a copy of which has been sent to him, by the hon. Member for Plymouth, Drake.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe current type of lap and diagonal seat belt as used world-wide has emerged as the best336W compromise for effective performance, comfort and ease of use. The addition of a further shoulder strap might add to the difficulties to which my hon. Friend has drawn my attention.
Improving the lie of the shoulder strap can help significantly, and ways of enabling this to be achieved more readily without compromising safety are being pursued by my Department.