HC Deb 11 July 1979 vol 970 cc224-5W
Mr. Lee

asked the Minister of Transport how many passengers in road accidents involving motor coaches were killed or injured over the past 12 months.

Mr. Fowler

I regret that the information is not available in the precise form requested. The following is available:

Mr. Fowler

Research carried out on behalf of my Department did not show that the wearing of seat belts in coaches would make a substantial contribution to safety in the event of an accident.

Mr. Lee

asked the Minister of Transport how many motor coaches are fitted with seat belts.

Mr. Fowler

I understand that very few motor coaches are fitted with seat belts. However, in the case of minibuses which have a seating capacity of up to 12 excluding the driver, it is a legal requirement for seat belts to be provided for the driver and the front seat passenger.