Benefit lump sum for car restraints

Press, 22 June 1984, Page 3

Benefit lump sum for car restraints

PA Wellington A re-elected National government would give parents up to a year’s lump payment of the family benefit to help them buy car restraints for their children, said the Minister of Social Welfare, Mr Young, yesterday. Another Government Minister, the Minister of Transport, Mr Gair, outlined the new car restraint regulations to come into force in September. Mr Young said he was aware that the cost of a child car restraint could sometimes be difficult for some families. “The Government has consequently decided to provide for the advance of up to 12 months family benefit to assist such households,” he said.

The new policy would come into effect after the passing of an amendment to the Social Security Act later this year.

Suitable restraints cost between $lOO and $2OO. The annual value of the family

benefit is $312 a child. The new regulations to come into force on September 1 say that where an approved child restraint is available it must be used by children under eight years. If there is no approved restraint available, children under eight must be restrained in any available child restraint or seat belt. Children under 15 will not be allowed to travel unrestrained in the front seat unless there is no rear seat or unless all seats behind the driver’s are already occupied by children under 15. “Basically this means that if you have a child restraint, use it. If not, use a seat belt and failing that, put the child in the rear seat,” Mr Gair said.

A number of restraints did not meet any safety standards but offered some protection, he said. They would be approved for manufacture and sale until January 1, 1985, to give manufacturers a chance to bring the products up to standard.