HC Deb 17 January 2001 vol 361 c262W
Mr. Chaytor

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what studies he has commissioned in respect of the reliability and robustness of train protection warning system loop aerials. [145027]

Mr. Hill

My right hon. Friend has commissioned no such studies. The Train Protection Warning System (TPWS) aerial loops form part of the equipment fitted to the track. The reliability and durability of this equipment has been demonstrated by factory tests and by extensive trials involving traffic loads. I understand that both Railtrack and the Health and Safety Executive's Railway Inspectorate have accepted the basic design.