Mr. Pageasked the Minister of Transport what evidence has been submitted by his Department in connection with the current examination by the British Standards Institution of the issue of a 63W British Standard for safety belts in motor vehicles; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarplesMy Department was represented on the Committee of the British Standards Institution which has been examining this question. They collaborated at all stages in the preparation of the Standard. I understand that the British Standard was issued today and that the British Standards Institution will test to this Standard belts submitted to them. It sets out characteristics of strength and design for the types of belts now available. The British Standards Institution hope to continue their examination of this subject with the objective of improving both the design of belts and the tests to which they are submitted.
I have arranged an exhibition of safety belts for inspection by hon. Members in the House on Wednesday and Thursday, the 27th and 28th July.