§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what responsibilities are laid by him on Her Majesty's inspectors of railways to lay down or monitor their, or other bodies, standards of general maintenance of track, rolling stock or other operational equipment other than those recommended consequential on specific activities related to accidents.
§ Mr. FreemanHer Majesty's railway inspectorate sets non-statutory standards for fixed works and rolling stock, but does not lay down standards for maintenance work, which are matters for railway operators in accordance with their responsibilities for safe operation. The inspectorate has powers under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to require operators to conduct their undertaking in such a way as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practical, that the safety of passengers and staff is not compromised.