§ Mr. Bidwellasked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what representations he has received from taxi trade interests seeking exemption from compulsory seat belt wearing;
(2) in which countries in Western Europe taxi drivers are exempt from any general law compelling drivers to wear seat belts.
§ Mr. David HowellIn response to my statement of proposals for compulsory seat belt wearing, I have received 10 requests for exemption for taxi drivers from organisations representing them or from individual taxi drivers or proprietors. I will carefully consider all their comments before the regulations are laid before Parliament for approval.
I understand that taxi drivers are exempt from compulsory seat belt wearing in the following West European countries: Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and West Germany.