§ Mr. WardTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what research is being carried out into the fitting of air bags in cars to protect drivers and passengers involved in accidents; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeResearch into air bags has been carried out for many years by the motor industry. By comparison with seat belts, air bags are expensive and are effective in protecting drivers and passengers only in certain types of accident. They should be regarded as a supplement and not an alternative to seat belts. Their safety potential is greater in the United States than here because seat belts are less widely worn there. Nevertheless, in view of their 623W growing popularity in the United States and their apparent effectiveness in certain accidents, I have commissioned research to monitor these developments.