§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he has information regarding the number of badgers electrocuted on railway lines; and what measures are being taken to reduce the number of such deaths.
§ Mr. David MitchellI do not have information for the BR network as a whole. I understand that badgers have been killed on the newly electrified Tonbridge-Hastings line where their runs cross the railway. I am pleased to say that, after consultation with the RSPCA, British Rail have cut gaps in the conductor rail to allow badgers to cross safely. I understand the board will consider similar measures elsewhere where lines are to be electrified if the need arises.