HC Deb 04 December 1989 vol 163 cc91-2W
37. Mrs. Ray Michie

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what measures he is taking to improve the safety of women travelling on their own.

Mr. Portillo

Public transport operators are implementing a number of measures which will improve the security of all passengers.

British Rail: The British transport police are maintaining a higher visibility throughout the British Rail network and particularly in the Network SouthEast area. Other measures at NSE stations include better lighting and closed circuit television (CCTV). The remaining closed compartment carriages still in use on NSE services will be replaced as soon as new rolling stock comes on stream.

London Underground: The Government have provided £15 million for a programme of passenger security measures including passenger alarms, CCTV, mirrors and improved lighting in passageways. The number of police on the Underground has increased and their effectiveness has been improved by a new radio system and new area police stations.

Buses: The installation of radios and video cameras will help to deter crime. Women may particularly welcome the growing use of midi-buses where passengers travel close to the driver.

My Department has issued advice to motorists on what to do should they break down on the motorway or in remote places.