Written question asked by Gwyneth Dunwoody (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 July 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 17 July 2003. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Thursday, 17 July 2003 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps are being taken to improve the reliability of the train protection and warning system, with reference to (a) delays to trains running into terminal stations and (b) drivers needing to apply power between the TPWS and the buffer stops.

Answer: Mrs. Dunwoody: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what steps are being taken to improve the reliability of the train protection and warning system, with reference to (a) delays to trains running into terminal stations and (b) drivers needing to apply power between the TPWS and the buffer stops. [126836] Dr. Howells: Network Rail advises that the train protection and warning system (TPWS) has a good record of reliability. TPWS at buffer stops is set to intervene only if trains exceed 10mph. Network Rail is working with the train operators and their drivers to ensure that all trains are controlled to below this trigger point and to enter terminal stations at this low speed. Network Rail works with the train operators to assist drivers in controlling their train speeds into termini.

Secondary information