HC Deb 27 January 1994 vol 236 cc393-4W
Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what measures he intends to bring forward to help prevent or mitigate accidents involving school transport.

Mr. Key

Draft regulations, which will make the display of a distinctive sign on buses carrying children to or from school mandatory, are currently being finalised. They will also allow vehicles displaying the sign to use their hazard warning lights, when stationary, to indicate to other road users that children are boarding or alighting or are in the vicinity of the vehicle.

We are also reviewing the full technical and cost implications of seat belts in minibuses and coaches, irrespective of their use. Until this review is complete we do not feel that it would be wise to introduce new legislation in this area.