§ Mrs. Anne CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what are the differences between safety regulations applying to cars and those applying to minibuses.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleThe Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 lay down the requirements for the construction of all vehicles. Specific requirements for the construction and use of minibuses include provisions on the number of doors and on their operation and access, as well as on the size of seats. There are also other minor requirements on such things as the lighting of steps to ensure passenger safety. Minibuses must also carry a first aid kit and fire extinguisher.
§ Mrs. Anne CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if the Government will fund research on the kinds of injuries inflicted on children in coach and minibus accidents.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleWe have no plans to conduct such research at present. Statistics indicate that injuries to children travelling in minibuses represent less than 0.01 per cent. of all road casualties. We believe, therefore, that our resources would be better targeted on areas where potential benefits, including those to children, are greater.