§ Mr. Thurnhamasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will arrange for discussions with coach operators on safety measures to seek to prevent injuries in the event of accidents including better supported roofs, securely fitted windows, better anchored seats and the fitting of safety belts.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe are already discussing our proposals for a number of new safety measures with the coach industry and these include roof strength and seat belts. A draft international standard on the strength of coach seats and their anchorages is currently being considered in the UN:ECE technical working group on coach safety. I have no plans at present to introduce any new requirement for the fixing of coach windows.