asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will seek to amend the law to remove the seven-day requirement of notification of account by health authorities to road accidents victims under section 155 of the Road Traffic Act 1972, where this requirement will cause hardship.

I have been asked to reply.No financial hardship should be caused by this requirement as the fee is normally reimbursed by motor insurance companies without prejudice to any no claims bonus. However, distress can be caused when accounts are presented so soon after accidents involving serious injury or death. We will consider extending the seven-day limit when an opportunity for legislation presents itself.