Bus Services (Safety)

HC Deb 20 January 1995 vol 252 cc733-4W

Mr. Cox

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what meetings he(a) has held or (b) proposes to hold with organisations running public or private bus services to improve safety for passengers during late evening and night services; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Norris

The primary responsibility for the safe operation of bus services rests with bus operators. It is in their commercial interest to ensure that services are safe and attractive for passengers.

The Department chairs a standing panel of representatives of bus operators, trade unions, the police and interested Government Departments, which meets to consider trends in assaults on bus crews and passengers and to recommend preventive measures. The Department is also commissioning a national review of transport-related crime, perceptions of safety and current preventive initiatives. This will include public and private bus companies.