HC Deb 15 July 1997 vol 298 cc117-8W
Mr. Oaten

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment which laws govern the transporting of school pupils in a hired bus or coach. [7850]

Ms Estelle Morris

The main legislation in England governing the transport of school pupils in a hired bus or coach is:

Transport the Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981 (as amended by the Deregulation and Contracting Out Act 1994), the Transport Act 1985, the Road Traffic Act 1988, and regulations made under those Acts;

Health and Safety the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992;

Home to School Transport the Education Act 1996 (section 509).

Mr. Oaten

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment who is legally responsible for the safety of pupils carried on a bus or coach hired by a school. [8037]

Ms Morris

Schools and LEAs in England are responsible for ensuring that they use an appropriate bus or coach company. Operators of public service vehicles are legally responsible for ensuring passenger safety.

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