Vol. 534 No. 2
92 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will take steps to introduce the banning of bull bars on all road vehicles as a road safety measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6125/01]
Under Directive 74/483, bull bars and other exterior projections to motor vehicles are covered by an EU wide type approval arrangement. Provided a manufacturer has obtained type approval under this arrangement, it is not open to a member state to take action at national level to prohibit the sale or fitment of bull bars.
At present, the European Commission is developing proposals for safer vehicle fronts, with particular reference to increased pedestrian safety. The proposals are likely to be dealt with by way of an amendment to Directive 74/483 and will provide opportunity, if appropriate, to review safety issues regarding exterior projections to vehicles, including bull bars.
