HC Deb 29 March 2004 vol 419 c1164W
Norman Baker

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will take steps to encourage drivers to switch off their engines while being held at full-length level crossing gates. [163967]

Mr. Jamieson

The impacts of switching off and restarting engines after a short period of time are complex and not consistent for different pollutants, such action could actually increase the overall emission level of certain types of pollutant. The effect on vehicle emissions will be dependent on factors such as the type of engine, its state of maintenance and the length of time for which the engine is switched off. It is therefore not considered appropriate to recommend engine switch-off at level crossings.