§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is his estimate of the saving to the National Health Service as a result of the compulsory wearing of front seat belts, in each year since 1983; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanNo precise estimate has been made. The introduction of compulsory wearing of front seat belts has undoubtedly saved the lives of some of those involved in road traffic accidents. However, many of those whose lives have been saved have instead received injuries with consequent costs to the National Health Service which would not previously have been incurred.