HC Deb 19 March 1985 vol 75 c428W
Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to control the quality of motor cycle helmet replacement visors.

Mrs. Chalker

The Department has today circulated draft regulations which would require motor cycle helmet replacement visors to comply with the latest amendments to the relevant British standard. The main requirements are that no replacement visor should be so tinted as to reduce light transmission by more than 50 per cent., and that all visors should be made of material which is resistant to abrasion. The abrasion resistance requirement will also apply to visors sold with new helmets. Manufacturers and retailers will be consulted to ensure that adequate mile is provided to set up the necessary arrangements and clear old stocks.

These regulations will make a positive contribution to road safety by removing from the market visors which are excessively dark or abrade easily, so reducing the motorcyclist's ability to see clearly.