§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Transport what assessment he has made of the implication for safety of trains running from Stanlow oil refinery without guards; what information he has as to how long this has been happening; what loads are being carried; what safety precautions are being taken; when the decision to use single man operation was implemented; who was consulted about this decision; and what is the cost saving.
§ Mr. David MitchellThe British Railways Board has established criteria for the circumstances under which driver-only operation may be permitted. These criteria cover all types of train, including freight trains, and have been agreed by the Railway Inspectorate as providing a satisfactory basis for the safe operation of trains by the driver only. As the board has the responsibility for the safe, efficient and economical operation of its railway the hon. Member should write to it for the detailed information he requires in relation to the remaining parts of his question.