HC Deb 18 May 1976 vol 911 c456W
Mrs. Ann Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he is taking to ensure that coach builders install suitable mountings for the fitting of seat belts for: (a) all coach seats (b) drivers' seats and (c) front and centre rear seats.

Dr. Gilbert

I refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to my hon. Friends the Members for Cannock (Mr. Roberts) and Thornaby (Mr. Wrigglesworth) on 4th February 1976.

I am preparing a standard for safer coach seats which would reduce the effects of the impact when passengers were thrown forward against them in an accident. Seat belts may be needed for passengers in unprotected positions, and for the driver. I shall consult interested organisations as soon as my proposals are ready, which may not be for some time yet.—[Vol. 904, c. 642–4.]