§ Mr. OatenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what arrangements he is making to ensure that the Transport Research Laboratory continues to provide crash testing facilities for wheelchairs. [91826]
§ Mr. JamiesonWe understand that TRL are to cease the routine product testing of wheelchairs and associated equipment to concentrate resources on their core research businesses. The Department is aware of the importance of this dynamic testing service, and TRL has recently completed an extensive programme of research for my Department on the safety of wheelchair users who travel as passengers in vehicles. Equipment manufacturers also use such test facilities for product development and to provide evidence in support of applications for CE marking.
TRL was privatised in 1996 and now forms part of the Transport Research Foundation group of companies providing impartial transport research and advice. Although it is disappointing that TRL has chosen to withdraw from this market, we are unable to influence the work that they choose to do or the services that they offer. Other test houses in the UK have dynamic test equipment and are able to offer this service.