§ Mrs. MayTo ask the Solicitor-General on what basis the CPS decided that the investigation of the case of corporate manslaughter arising from the Paddington rail crash should be re-opened. [59817]
§ The Solicitor-GeneralThe CPS has advised the police to undertake limited inquiries to determine whether or not there is an impediment in linking the management of the signal sighting around Ladbroke Grove, in particular Signal SN109, with the actual circumstances of the Ladbroke Grove collision. This was on the basis of having considered further legal advice.
§ Mrs. MayTo ask the Solicitor-General when the CPS(a) decided and (b) informed the British transport police that the investigation of a corporate manslaughter charge in relation to the Paddington rail crash should be re-opened. [59818]
§ The Solicitor-GeneralThe CPS considered the advice that it would offer to the British transport police over a number of weeks, and kept the British transport police informed of its developing thinking. A decision was made recently and formal notification of its advice was made by the CPS to the British transport police on 21 May. 1167W Letters to interested parties, including victims' relatives, were dispatched that day. If any further evidence is obtained that will, of course, be considered by the CPS. The HSE has in any event announced its intention to issue proceedings against Railtrack and Thames Trains for offences contrary to sections 2 and 3 of the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974.