HC Deb 10 July 1974 vol 876 cc481-2W
Mr. George Rodgers

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will set up an independent inquiry into the circumstances that led to the construction of buildings, including schools, by the method of pre-stressed concreting and post-tensioning in order to establish the responsibility for the introduction and subsequent hazards associated with the system.

Mr. Freeson

There is no reason at present to suppose that buildings of pre-stressed post-tensioned concrete construction are inherently unsafe. We are proposing to survey a sample of such buildings but I do not think that an independent inquiry as suggested by my hon. Friend is necessary at this stage.

the compulsory wearing of crash helmets for motor cyclists has reduced the number of fatal or serious accidents.

Mr. Mulley

Mandatory wearing of safety helmets by riders and passengers of two-wheeled motor vehicles was introduced on 1st June 1973, but as riders may have taken a few weeks to observe fully the new regulations the following table gives a reliable comparison:

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