§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether, in view of the savings to insurance companies caused by compulsory seat belt wearing, he will, either by legislation or discussion, take action to ensure that these savings are passed on to motorists by the reduction of premiums by the insurance companies.
§ Mrs. ChalkerNo. Such action would be inappropriate as motor insurance premiums, like other 75W insurance premiums, must be fixed by the insurers in the light of underwriting experience. Competition in the motor insurance market should provide an incentive to insurers to reflect in motor premium rates any savings arising from measures to improve road safety.
§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether, in view of the difficulties associated with obtaining exemptions from compulsory use of seat belts for drivers and front seat passengers of vehicles for physically disabled persons, he will keep this aspect under review.
§ Mrs. ChalkerI am not aware of any general difficulties in respect of exemption for disabled people. We are monitoring the operation of the regulations and will keep this under review along with the other aspects. If the hon. Gentleman has any specific cases in mind, perhaps he would like to write to me.