§ Mr. PikeTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the present policy regarding standing passengers on(a) buses and (b) coaches; what assessment he has made of the benefits of renewing this policy; and if he will make a statement. [12838]
§ Mr. NorrisThe carriage of standing passengers in both buses and coaches is strictly controlled by the Public Service Vehicles (Carrying Capacity) Regulations 1984. Both seating and standing capacities must be marked clearly on the vehicle. Vehicles intended to carry more than eight standing passengers must meet minimum 845W requirements for both standing space and headroom. Sufficient hand grips must be fitted for each standing passenger.
We are currently consulting on a draft code of practice on the operation of one-man operated buses, which includes the measures for standing passengers. I shall be considering the safety of standing passengers, along with the other provisions of the code, in the light of that consultation.