HL Deb 19 October 1999 vol 605 c117WA
Lord Lester of Herne Hill

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are satisfied with the efficacy and marking of emergency exits on trains. [HL4186]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

Following a fire on a train near Maidenhead in 1995, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommended improvements to the provision of emergency equipment and facilities for passengers. This resulted in the British Railways Board, in conjunction with train operators and train leasing companies, producing an industry code of practice, which remains in force.

HSE's investigation of the Paddington accident will re-examine whether current provisions are adequate and the wide-ranging remit of Lord Cullen's public inquiry will allow further consideration of the matter, if judged relevant.