HC Deb 04 February 1988 vol 126 cc685-6W
Mr. Hargreaves

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps he proposes to take consequent upon the report on the rail accident at Preston station on 18 January 1986; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

The Inspecting Officer of Railways concluded that the accident was caused by an error on the part of the train driver. Any further action is a matter for the British Railways Board.

Mr. Hargreaves

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received concerning the report of the accident at Preston station on 18 January 1986; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

I have had no representations, but one of my hon. Friend's constituents has corresponded with the Inspecting Officer of Railways.

Mr. Hargreaves

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recommendations of the report on the accident at Preston station on 18 January 1986 have been implemented; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

The report made no firm recommendations, but did suggest that consideration be given to installing an audible alarm, which would sound in the signal box, if a train passes a signal at danger at the entrance to complex station or junction areas. The British Railways Board has considered this suggestion but has concluded that the work to reduce the number of signals passed at Danger that it is already undertaking will be more beneficial.