§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Transport what percentage of cars is fitted with rear safety belts; and whether he intends to make their use mandatory in due course.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThe Government do not require car manufacturers or owners to provide this information, but our best estimate is that between 5 and 10 per cent. of new cars are now being fitted with rear seat belts by manufacturers or subsequently by their owners. There is no intention of extending the compulsory wearing requirement to rear seat occupants.