HC Deb 16 October 1996 vol 282 c981W
Mr. Win Griffiths

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to ensure that all vehicles used to transport children to and from school during school hours meet the standards of safety demanded by parents. [41154]

Mr. Jonathan Evans

The provision of school transport is a matter for local education authorities. I have advised authorities that I expect the transport they provide to be appropriate to ensure that pupils travel in safety and reasonable comfort, and that they should take such steps as they consider necessary to satisfy themselves of the appropriateness of both vehicle and driver. The Government have now made regulations which require seat belts to be fitted on minibuses and coaches used specifically for transporting children, which should further reassure parents who are concerned for the safety of their children.