§ Mr. CartwrightTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will issue a direction to British Rail to withdraw, on grounds of passenger safety, all non-corridor rolling stock from all Network SouthEast routes.
§ Mr. David MitchellDeployment of rolling stock is a matter for BR in the light of its statutory obligations, but I have discussed the recent tragic murder with Sir Robert Reid. I understand that all non-corridor rolling stock will be phased out by 1991. In the meantime it is used only on a limited number of lines and normally only at peak times. Even off-peak, non-corridor compartment coaches account for only part of the train, so that passengers have a choice between compartment and open coaches. BR is taking steps to bring this choice to passengers' attention and is considering whether further measures might be appropriate.