asked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take steps to introduce a system of public inquiries when public service vehicles are involved in serious accidents similar to that which occured on the M6 on Monday 21 October.

Serious road accidents—including those involving public service vehicles — are already subject to thorough investigation by the police and, as necessary, by vehicle examiners from my Department. I am satisfied that present procedures are sufficient to establish the factors involved and any lessons which can be learnt.