§ Chris GraylingTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions (1) what assessment he has made of the likely impact of the introduction of automatic train protection on the ability of the rail industry to manage other major projects at the same time; [26461]
(2) if it remains his policy to require the rail industry to introduce ATP; and by what date. [26460]
199W
§ Mr. SpellarUnder existing law, by the end of 2003 a train protection system should be in service wherever trains are operated. Where it is reasonably practicable to install it, this means automatic train protection (ATP). European Interoperability regulations will also require the European rail traffic management system (ERTMS), which includes ATP, to be fitted in certain circumstances. In addition, the Government have undertaken to bring measures arising from the public inquiry into train protection chaired jointly by Lord Cullen and Professor Uff within the 10-Year Plan for Transport.
The Health and Safety Commission are preparing advice for the Government on a realistic timetable for extending automatic train protection coverage. This advice will take account of the industry's ability to manage other projects at the same time.