§ 2. Mrs. Renee Shortasked the Minister of Transport what research is being carried out by her research organisations in the design of safer railway coaches.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport (Mr. John Morris)Research in this field is the responsibility of British Rail. Their current research covers strengths of coach structures and materials, improved braking systems, improved riding at high speeds, and possible fire hazards.
§ Mrs. ShortDoes my hon. Friend agree that the safety of railway coaches appears to compare unfavourably with the safety of the best modern road vehicles? Does he not think that the design of railway coaches should be reconsidered so that there can be a reduction in the size of their scantlings and that far more materials are produced to reduce the energy and impact?
§ Mr. MorrisThere is a programme for the replacement of railway stock under way, but British Rail has a first-class research organisation at Derby. I am not aware that there is any foundation for my hon. Friend's criticisms.