§ 30. Mr. Raphael Tuckasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether in view of the findings of the various reports on invalid tricycles, including Which, Drive and the Ombudsman Report, she is satisfied with the handling characteristic, protection and accident rate of the 500 cc invalid tricycles now on the roads as issued to the severely handicapped by her Department; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisThe three-wheeler necessarily incorporates features which are not needed in a road vehicle designed for able-bodied drivers, and this detracts from its handling characteristics compared with four-wheeled cars. In crash protection, it complies with all safety requirements except one relating to the steering mechanism on which a test programme is currently being undertaken by the Motor Industry Research Association. The latest accident figures are being studied by the Department and the Department of the Environment.
§ 42. Mr. Terry Walkerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services why she has decided to stop the provision of the four-wheel mini car to disabled persons.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisI would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to the hon. Member for Exeter (Mr. Hannam) on 25th November.—[Vol. 901, c.146.]
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§ 49. Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what tests in regard to roadworthiness are compulsory for invalid tricycles.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisThese machines are not subject to the compulsory testing arrangements administered by the Department of the Environment.
Preventive maintenance arrangements include servicing by specialist repairers at least three times a year and independent inspection and road test by my Department's technical staff.
§ Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will insist on invalid tricycles being manufactured from British materials in order to ensure that spare parts are more readily available.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisBritish parts are, for different reasons, used when possible. Most spare parts are readily available from the Department's central store.