§ Ms Janet AndersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what advice about rail safety is provided by Railtrack to schools; and what comparable advice was supplied to schools before privatisation. [19440]
§ Mr. WattsRailtrack has continued and developed the previous BR programme of school visits which incorporates talks, discussions and the distribution of a range of support materials. Train drivers and British Transport police officers visit schools regularly, warning children of the danger they can cause to themselves and to others. Besides the dangers of playing on the lines, topics covered include trespass, vandalism, high voltage electricity and stone throwing.
Since Railtrack assumed responsibility, anti-trespass and vandalism initiatives, including school visits, have been co-ordinated by the Railtrack zones in co-operation with train operators and the BTP. This has led to an increase in the level of involvement of local managers and in support from communities.