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General Motors has mainly stayed out of the debate. In Washington, G.M.'s present silence is taken to indicate a tacit acceptance of the air-bag scheme. Nonetheless, last week's court action will probably serve as a safety cushion between the other recalcitrant automakers and the insistent Transportation Department. The automakers will eventually install air bags, which seem to be the most sensible safety device yet proposed, but they clearly need more time to perfect the bags. Twice before, the deadlines for installing air bags in cars have been postponed. Another delay now seems likely.