A trailer safety campaign launched in memory of Bristol toddler Freddie Hussey is back on the national agenda following a debate in the House of Lords.
Labour Peer Steve Bassam raised the issue at a Grand Committee meeting last Thursday, building on the work done by Freddie’s family and Bristol South MP Karin Smyth.
Karin Smyth MP, Labour MP for Bristol South, said:
“Thursday’s intervention is the latest step on a long journey for Freddie’s parents, Donna and Scott. Since Freddie’s death, their bravery and commitment to ensure that some good would come from their tragedy has been an inspiration.
“And together, we have made some amazing progress, including the #TowSafe4Freddie national trailer safety campaign run by the Driver and Vehicle Safety Agency in Freddie’s memory to educate drivers and raise the profile of trailer safety.
“It is my hope that this latest move in Westminster will put the spotlight back on trailer safety, and ensure that this important issue returns to the House of Commons Chamber, where we can keep up the pressure on Government Ministers to revisit the issue – and consider the case for a change in the law.”
Labour Peer Lord Bassam said:
“It is impossible to not be moved by the bravery of the Hussey family, and the huge impact their campaigning in Freddie’s memory has already achieved.
“I believe that this will provide new impetus to the work Karin Smyth has already done in Westminster, and will put this issue front and centre in the mind of Government Transport Ministers.”
The renewed activity in Westminster comes just weeks before the second Trailer Safety Summit being held in Bedminster. The summit, which follows a highly successful 2017 event, will be attended by Transport Minister Jesse Norman MP.