§ Mr. O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what report he has received on the field tests being carried out on motorcycle leg protectors; when he intends to publish it; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter Bottomley[holding answer 3 March 1989]: An extensive programme of test work is still being carried out. The findings will continue to be made public.
An in-depth study of motorcycle injury accidents carried out by the TRRL suggests that some 70 per cent. of motorcyclist casualties sustain some form of leg injury.
I believe that major motorcycle manufacturing firms recognise the urgent need to improve motorcycle safety. There is increasing concern worldwide over the risks of motorcycling. The United Kingdom represents only a small part of the global market for motorcycles; there is a limit to the contribution any one country can make.
We are keen to see all road users respect each other and use the roads safely. We are also keen to see road users protected as far as possible from the consequences of crashes.
The prime responsibility for designing secondary protection in cars and motorcycles must be with the manufacturers and their designers.