HC Deb 09 March 1984 vol 55 cc718-9W
Mr. Favell

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will introduce measures to regulate the safety of hang-gliding equipment; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

We have no plans to introduce measures to regulate the safety of hang-gliding equipment. We believe that as a sporting activity it is preferable that through its approved association it should be self-regulating, and in this it is well served by the British Hang Gliding Association.

Mr. Favell

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what information he has as to the number of accidents in each of the last five years involving hang-gliders which have resulted (a) in deaths and (b) in injuries.

Mr. David Mitchell

Hang-gliders are not registered and no official records are kept of accidents. The following table shows fatalities known to my Department over the past five years.

Year Number killed
1979 6
1980 6
1981 2
1982 2
1983 4

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