A shift or gear lever device has an umbrella portion (46) provided to cover part of the internal mechanism at a position upstream of where the spillage occurs. The part provided with the umbrella portion is a pivoted stopper plate 38 controlled by an actuator 40 to prevent movement out of Park position unless the brakes are applied. Instead of the umbrella portion a liquid absorbing means can be provided. This may comprise holes to receive the liquid, with or without the inclusion of absorbent material.
