§ Mr. Hubbard-Milesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what decision he has taken on the regulations to require the fitting of rear seat belts.
§ Mrs. ChalkerMy right hon. Friend has now made regulations which will make rear seat belts or child restraints a legal requirement for all new cars manufactured from 1 October 1986, and first registered from 1 April 1987. The regulations allow for different types of belt or restraint to be fitted in order to meet our European Community obligations and also allow individuals to choose the most suitable type of belt for themselves or restraint for their children. The regulations also require a seat belt to be fitted in the centre front seat of cars and light vans where such a seat is provided. I am particularly anxious that car owners should have the freedom to choose the seat belts that best suit their needs. There are no plans to introduce the compulsory wearing of seat belts in the rear of cars.