Written question asked by Gareth Thomas (Labour) on Tuesday, 17 March 2020, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 March 2020. It was answered by Chris Heaton-Harris (Conservative) on Wednesday, 25 March 2020 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Railways: Coronavirus

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department is taking to reduce the risk of covid-19 infection on the Southern Rail, West Midland Trains and Chiltern Railway services that operate in Harrow West constituency.

Answer: To help tackle the spread of Covid-19, Southern Rail, West Midland Trains and Chiltern Railway, along with other rail operators and Network Rail are taking steps to keep our trains and stations clean. High-touch areas, such as hand rails and ticket machine screens on trains and at stations are being cleaned intensively, and staff are ensuring toilets are stocked with soap. We have also published health guidance for staff and the transport sector, in line with Public Health England protocols. As part of the Government’s programme of enhanced engagement, 2,500 digital and printed posters have been displayed at railway stations. The rail industry is making sure their staff remain abreast the latest health advice, and are promoting best practice to the travelling public at stations and online, through websites and apps.

Secondary information