§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is his Department's policy on the staffing of main stations(a) at night and (b) at other times; what discussions he has had with (i) train operators and (ii) the rail regulator on this issue; and if he will make a statement. [81502]
§ Ms Glenda Jackson[holding answer 21 April 1999]There are no absolute requirements in franchise agreements for stations to be staffed at night or at other times. Train Operating Companies (TOCs) must maintain the existing presence of staff at stations to the hours at which trains call unless they provide substitute facilities in relation to customer information and waiting accommodation. All TOCs are party to the Ticketing and Settlement Agreement, overseen by the Rail Regulator, which includes obligations covering the hours during which ticket offices must be open and the range of products that must be offered for sale. These obligations are closely in line with the arrangements that existed prior to franchising. The hours of opening of ticket offices cannot be reduced without the permission of the Rail Regulator following a consultation process. No discussions have taken place with (i) the train operators and (ii) the rail regulator on this issue.
§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will discuss with(a) First North Western Trains and (b) other rail operators the effects of removing platform staff on passenger safety. [81503]
§ Ms Glenda Jackson[holding answer 21 April 1999]There are no absolute requirements in franchise agreements for platform staff at stations and this is not a health and safety issue. We do, however, consider it very important that passengers perceive the railway as a secure environment and over the past year, operators have been working with the Franchising Director, this Department and the British Transport Police, to deliver the Secure Stations Scheme, which was formally launched in April 1998. This will award accreditation to stations that reach specified standards in design and management, and demonstrate reductions in the crime level and in passengers' perception of crime. A number of stations across the country have now been accredited under the scheme and it is hoped that many more will become accredited in the near future.
The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), which promotes network-wide projects, is implementing a Code of Practice on Passenger Security which identifies best practice, and encourages operators to co-operate with other organisations to improve security in and around stations.
§ Helen JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will seek a report from the rail regulator on the possible effect 629W of the removal of platform staff from Warrington Central Station on the performance targets of First North Western trains. [81504]
§ Ms Glenda Jackson[holding answer 21 April 1999]Performance in terms of punctuality and reliability is governed by a financial penalties and incentive regime under the franchise agreement between the Franchising Director and First North Western Trains. That applies to results achieved without regard to the operational methods adopted by the Train Operating Company. I understand that First North Western Trains have suspended their plans for staffing reductions at Warrington Central Station and others in the area while they consult with interested groups, individuals and the trade unions.