§ Mr. Pawseyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment the railways inspectorate has made of the safety hazard arising from debris on and adjacent to British Rail tracks arising from operational works; if any action has been proposed by the inspectorate in this regard; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David MitchellAny question of debris on or adjacent to British Rail tracks is in the first instance a matter for the British Railways Board. The railway inspectorate, in the course of its inspections and visits, has on occasion had to draw the board's attention to the need to remove unwanted material from alongside the line. Such material can hazard trains if it is too close to the track, can hazard staff if it obstructs lineside walkways or refuges, and can provide vandals with a means of deliberately obstructing the railway.