§ 16. Mr. Selwyn Gummerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will set up an independent investigation into safety precautions on railway tracks, particularly those using the third rail principle.
§ Mr. PeytonNo, Sir.
§ Mr. GummerIs my right hon. Friend aware that many people feel that British Railways have been very slow in protecting their railways from children, particularly where a third rail system is in operation, and that an independent inquiry would set minds at rest, particularly in my constituency?
§ Mr. PeytonI am aware that there have been some unpleasant and serious accidents in my hon. Friend's constituency. I stress the immense care which is taken by British Railways and the fact that they cannot possiby fortify railway lines against trespassers, whether children or adults. Accidents, particularly those involving children, receive the careful attention of the Chief Inspecting Officer.