HL Deb 29 July 1980 vol 412 cc717-8

2.38 p.m.

The Marquess of AILESBURY

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether it is the normal practice for accidents on London Transport to be investigated by trade union officials in the manner reported by the press on 10th July; and whether they consider that this will help to maintain the confidence of the travelling public.

Lord MOWBRAY and STOURTON

My Lords, the investigation of accidents occurring to persons at work by safety representatives appointed by the trade unions is authorised by regulations made under the Health and Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974. However, the safety and confidence of the travelling public are matters for the public inquiry ordered by my right honourable friend the Minister of Transport.

The Marquess of AILESBURY

My Lords, I thank the noble Lord for that reply. Would it not, however, be much better in every way and for everybody if trade unions could conduct their inquiries without conveying the strong impression that they are desperately anxious to get to the witness first and, indeed, to prevent other people from getting there first?

Lord MOWBRAY and STOURTON

My Lords, I am not quite sure of the implication behind the question asked by the noble Marquess. I do not know what "getting to the witness first" means. Assuming that the witness is truthful, it should not matter who gets to him first. In the case that the noble Marquess may have in mind, I understand that the witness was also interviewed by a policeman, and the inspector appointed by my right honourable friend the Minister of Transport was later able to cross-examine him at an inquiry. The truth will always "out", I hope, on these occasions.