§ Mr. David Youngasked the Secretary of State for Transport how many coach accidents involving British coaches at home and abroad there were in each of the last 10 years; how many casualties there were in each case; and what steps have been taken by his Department to improve coach design, equipment and safety.
§ Mrs. ChalkerAccident statistics do not distinguish between buses and coaches, and figures are not available for British vehicles involved in accidents abroad.
686WIn 1982, 12,911 buses and coaches were involved in accidents in Great Britain; 9,948 bus and coach passengers and drivers were injured in these accidents, of whom 33 were killed and 929 were seriously injured. Figures for previous years are given in tables 5 and 9 of "Road Accidents Great Britain 1982", available in the Library.
The statutory rules on coach safety and design are kept under constant review. Over the last few years, for example, specific measures have been taken to improve the braking performance of buses and coaches. Discussions are also taking place internationally to improve the strength of coach bodies and seats.