HC Deb 03 May 1971 vol 816 cc276-7W
Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will take action to make it compulsory for all vehicles to carry reflective triangles for use in case of accident or breakdown.

Mr. Peyton

I am considering the whole question of hazard warning devices, including advance warning triangles.

Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress has been made on the introduction of safety features in the construction of new motor vehicles; and what discussions have taken place between his Department and motor manufacturers.

Mr. Peyton

A wide range of vehicle safety requirements is already contained in regulations. The development and evaluation of additional safety features, either by the Department or the motor industry in consultation with each other, is a continuing process.

Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will introduce legislation to provide that all future motor vehicles shall be fitted with amber headlights.

Mr. Peyton

No.

Milligrammes per 100 millilitres
Nil or under 10 10–50 51–80 81–100 101–150 151–200 Over 200 All levels
1967 68 7 3 3 8 6 5 100
1968 70 4 5 6 4 100
1969 70 6 4 2 7 6 5 100
1970* 71 7 3 4 4 100
* January to September only.
Data for 1966 are not available.

Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment to what extent an analysis of the circumstances of road accidents during 1970 reveals specific causes of increased fatalities and injuries, as compared with the previous year.

Mr. Peyton

Detailed analyses are not yet available but the 3 per cent. increase in motor traffic was clearly one of the major factors.