To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps she is considering to raise the awareness of driving with under-inflated tyres; and what data she has on numbers of vehicles on the road with under-inflated tyres. (179696)

The Department for Transport launched the ACT ON CO₂ communications campaign in March 2007. One element of the campaign is to provide drivers with tips for more fuel efficient ‘smarter’ driving techniques to help reduce CO₂ emissions. This includes ensuring that tyres are maintained at the correct pressure.

The Department has used a variety of media to raise awareness of the campaign, including television, radio, online and print media, directing people to the ACT ON CO₂ website for more detailed advice.

In October 2007 the Department for Transport endorsed TyreSafe’s ‘Tyre safety month’ to raise awareness of the issue.

The Department does not collect data on the numbers of vehicles on the road with under-inflated tyres, however a survey in 2007 carried out by Michelin found that 80 per cent. of cars were running with incorrect tyre pressures. Further research conducted by TNO for the Dutch Ministry of Environment showed that 50 per cent. of cars were running on under-inflated tyres.