Drivers in England could face penalty points for failing to ensure child passengers wear seat belts, under changes being considered by Andy Burnham's government. The proposal is part of the Road Safety Strategy, which was published in January under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and is now being evaluated by the new administration.
Consultation process and timeline
The Labour government published its Road Safety Strategy earlier this year, followed by a series of consultations that ended in May. After three months of evaluating feedback, an update is expected by mid-August, with new Prime Minister Andy Burnham tasked with making key decisions.
One of the changes being considered is the introduction of penalty points for failure to wear a seat belt, and additional penalty points for drivers who do not ensure child passengers wear seat belts. The government stated: "Introducing penalty points for failure to wear a seat belt, and additional penalty points for drivers who do not ensure child passengers wear seat belts."
Impact and rationale
The government highlighted the effectiveness of mandatory seat belts since their introduction in 1991, calling them "one of the most effective policy interventions in the history of road safety." However, too many people still die in road collisions without wearing a seat belt. In 2024, 25% of car occupant fatalities were not wearing seat belts.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, who has been re-appointed to the brief under Burnham's first Cabinet shuffle, wrote in the strategy's foreword: "Experts and campaigners have long called for a comprehensive strategy that treats road safety as a shared responsibility. From car manufacturers and town planners to drivers and legislators – we all have a role to play in making our roads safe for everyone."
Official statements and next steps
Alexander added: "Bereaved families don’t need sympathy, they deserve action. This strategy, the first in over a decade, shows a government that’s not just listening, but leading."
The government is gathering feedback on the proposed penalty points, with further updates expected after the evaluation period concludes. The changes could significantly impact drivers, particularly those responsible for child passengers.
