HC Deb 22 November 1982 vol 32 cc329-30W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what factors led him to exempt driving examiners from wearing seat belts; and which of these factors do not apply in the case of driving instructors.

Mrs. Chalker

Driving examiners will be exempt from compulsory wearing only when this would endanger themselves or others. Examiners must delay any intervention until the last possible moment because such intervention will result in a test being failed. This consideration does not apply to instructors.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Transport why he proposes that drivers should be exempt from wearing a seat belt while reversing.

Mrs. Chalker

I have no option in this matter. The Transport Act 1981 requires the regulations on compulsory seat belt wearing to include such an exemption.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will introduce regulations to exempt drivers travelling under 10 mph from wearing a seat belt.

Mrs. Chalker

No. I consider that such an exemption would be unjustified and undesirable. Occupants of vehicles travelling below 10 mph hould not be immune from injury, particularly when in collision with another moving vehicle.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) why he proposes that taxi drivers should be exempt from wearing a seat belt while hiring passengers;

(2) if he will introduce regulations to exempt taxi drivers from wearing seat belts at all times.

Mrs. Chalker

A limited exemption from compulsory wearing has been provided for taxi drivers solely because of their vulnerability to attack. I see no grounds for a wider exemption.