HC Deb 23 July 1996 vol 282 cc137-8W
Mrs. Dunwoody

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will list the number of automatic train protection trials that are in operation, on what lines they are operating, the number of trains on which automatic protection is fitted, the number of trains on which automatic trainprotection is operating and the number of drivers trained in the use of automatic train protection. [38522]

Mr. Watts

Two automatic train protection equipment trials have been undertaken, one on the Chiltern line and the other on the Great Western main line. The trials were designed to allow technical evaluation of different equipment. The numbers of trains fitted and crews trained for the purposes of the trials are not available.

The trials have now been completed and it is intended that the schemes will be brought into full normal operation by October 1996.

London Underground operates a "train stop" type automatic train protection system throughout its network.

Mrs. Dunwoody

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what progress his Department has made regarding the introduction of automated train protection. [38521]

Mr. Watts

Railtrack's train protection strategy is a major programme incorporating several initiatives which will further reduce the number of signals passed at danger. These initiatives include:

  1. (i) the bringing into full service operation of the pilot ATP schemes on the Chiltern and Great Western routes, planned for October 1996.
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  2. (ii) the development of a train protection warning system to replace the existing automatic warning system at selected locations. This will provide train stop and red signal speed trap facilities. The development contract was let by Railtrack earlier this year and equipment has been installed which will allow trials to take place.
  3. (iii) the development of radio-based cab signalling, initially as part of the modernisation of the West Coast main line. Two development contracts have been let and work is proceeding.

In addition, other initiatives to prevent SPADS, including a driver reminder appliance, have been the subject of successful trials and wider application is planned to follow.

Although it is not reasonably practicable to fit on a network wide basis the system of ATP which have piloted, the Health and Safety Executive would expect to see a form of ATP, or an equivalent protection system, incorporated on any new high speed line such as the channel tunnel rail link and fully considered in any new major resignalling scheme.

The HSE's HM railway inspectorate will be closely monitoring progress towards delivery of Railtrack's train protection strategy.