HL Deb 18 July 1967 vol 285 cc247-8WA
THE EARL OF CROMARTIE

asked Her Majesty's Government:

"What control, if any, they exert over British Railways, in view of serious accidents at the recently 'unmanned' level crossings in the North of Scotland, and why vigorous representations by local authorities for the reintroduction of adequate safety measures have gone unregarded."

LORD SHEPHERD

There has been only one accident this year at a recently "unmanned" level crossing in the North of Scotland. It happened on June 28 when a learner driver stalled her car on the level crossing at Achterneed, not far from Dingwall, on the Kyle of Lochalsh line. The speed of the train was very low, as required at this open crossing, and the occupants of the car were not seriously hurt. No representations have been received to review the protection at this crossing, which was in accordance with the arrangements discussed between representatives of this Ministry, the Scottish Region of British Railways, and the County authorities on May 10, 1966.

The Minister of Transport's control over British Railways in respect of level crossings is exercised in accordance with the Acts, as amended from time to time, under which the lines were built.

House adjourned at ten minutes past five o'clock.