HC Deb 01 March 1978 vol 945 cc220-1W
34. Mr. Gwilym Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on progress in implementing the recommendations for improving coach safety.

Mr. Horam

Proposals for common test procedures for checking compliance with ECE Regulation No. 36 on roof strength have now been prepared and put forward within ECE, and so has a draft of a new regulation on seats and seat mountings. Consultation has taken place on a proposal to amend the Public Service Vehicles (Conditions of Fitness, Equipment and Use) Regulations 1972 so as to require escape hatches to be fitted in roofs, but in view of serious objections on grounds of cost alternative possibilities are being examined.

Regulations requiring operators of public service vehicles to meet standards of professional competence have been made and a phased programme for implementing the EEC rules on drivers' hours has been adopted.

Work is continuing on the subjects of braking standards, seat belts and compulsory testing.

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