MP calls for tougher penalties for not wearing seatbelts

By Josh Thomas, Press Association Parliamentary Staff

AN MP has called for tougher action against those not wearing seatbelts, saying more people are being killed in road accidents.

Labour's Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) said more people are choosing not to wear them, and that there should be tougher penalties, such as having three points put on a driver's license.

Speaking in the house of Commons, he said: "Are you aware an all-party group of members came together to secure the seatbelt legislation many years ago after 13 failed attempts. On the 14th we actually got it.

"The saving of lives and serious injuries has been substantial."

Mr Sheerman added: "We have a report today that seatbelt wearing is declining. A quarter of the people last year killed on the road were not wearing their seatbelts.

"Could we have it as an endorsable offence, with a three point penalty? Could we take action on this?"

Transport minister Jesse Norman replied: "We will look very closely at the report and, as you will be aware, we have a road safety refresh of our statement coming up over the summer and we will look very closely in that context as well."