§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations his Department has had about problems arising for severely disabled people from the compulsory wearing of seat belts; what replies have been sent; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. ChalkerSince the regulations came into force on 31 January, one national organisation has written about compulsory seat belt wearing and the provision of seat belts specially designed for disabled people. We have also received a small number of letters, including one from the right hon. Gentleman, relating to specific cases where problems seem to have arisen. We have been able to offer advice in such cases and they have, as far as we are aware, been resolved satisfactorily. My right hon. Friend will be writing to the right hon. Gentleman very shortly about the particular case he has raised.
Compulsory seat belt wearing has not been reported to be a problem generally for disabled people. Before we 45W drew up the regulations, groups who represent the disabled were fully consulted. They agreed that general exemption was not desirable because the vast majority of disabled people would be able to wear seat belts and would benefit from doing so. Those who consider that they are unable to do so can apply for exemption on medical grounds. Many are eligible for free examination through DHSS medical boarding centres.