§ Mr. WeirTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what recent discussions he has had with the Health and Safety Inspectorate on Network Rail's proposals to close unmanned level crossings in Scotland; [133121]
359W(2) what recent representations he has received from organisations representing country pursuits regarding Network Rail's proposals to close unmanned level crossings in Scotland. [133122]
§ Mr. McNultyNone. This is an operational matter for Network Rail.
However, I understand that there are continuing discussions between the Health and Safety Executive, Network Rail, the Ramblers' Association, the Scottish Executive, Scottish Natural Heritage, local authorities and residents about Network Rail's policy of preventing unauthorised use of a small number of private level crossings in Scotland. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has drawn the attention of Network Rail's Chief Executive to the need for decisions to enforce restrictions at such crossings to be properly justified on safety grounds.