HC Deb 24 March 1970 vol 798 cc1182-3
3. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the Minister of Transport how many trains were derailed in the first three months of 1970; and what was the comparable total in the first three months of 1969, 1965 and 1960, respectively.

Mr. Murray

I know the hon. Member has a high regard for my foresight, but even he will not expect me to give an answer today covering the month of March. However, the provisional figure for reportable derailments on all railways in Great Britain during January and February this year is 49. Comparable figures for 1969, 1965 and 1960 were 77, 45 and 47 respectively.

Mr. Taylor

As the Minister indicated in his reply in June last year that he was expecting an improvement towards the end of the year, in this part of a continuing improvement? When did it begin, and does he think that it will continue?

Mr. Murray

Naturally, we hope that the improvement mentioned by the hon. Member will continue, but I think it is really too early to draw any conclusions.

Mr. Ronald Atkins

Would my hon. Friend agree that the chief cause of these derailments is obsolete rolling-stock in the freight division? Can he estimate what would be the total cost of replacing them?

Mr. Murray

Not without notice. Certainly, if possible, I will let my hon. Friend have the information that he requires.