HL Deb 19 March 2001 vol 623 c138WA
Lord Harrison

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether mandatory seat belts on passenger trains would help passenger safety and reduce deaths and injuries in railway accidents. [HL1164]

Lord Macdonald of Tradeston

Although the use of properly fitting seat belts could in certain circumstances protect passengers in a train accident, the Health and Safety Executive's (HSE's) Railway Inspectorate (HMRI) is not persuaded that the fitting of seat belts in trains is a reasonably practicable precaution.

HSE is not aware of any examples (worldwide) where seat belts are provided on railway trains. HMRI continues its independent monitoring and investigation of rail safety to ensure that safety standards are maintained and improved where necessary.