Transport Minister Kim Howells today gave his support to the railway industry’s second annual National Railway Crime Week.
The Minister also welcomed the new cross-industry partnership arrangements set up to combat route crime. Through a range of prevention, enforcement and education initiatives, and working with local communities, a 16% decrease in route crime has already been achieved over the last year.
Route crime covers offences committed along railway lines, from stone throwing to trespass on the tracks. Placing obstructions on the track or dropping bricks from bridges onto drivers' cabs can endanger the lives of those travelling on a train.
The British Transport Police, active members of the cross-industry partnership, cover 10,000 miles of track and 3000 stations. In some areas their officers are dedicated full time to solving the route crime problem. In addition, around two thirds of over ground rail journeys pass through a Secure Station with CCTV, extra lighting and help points.
Kim Howells said:
‘I am pleased to support National Railway Crime Week and I am encouraged by the initial success of the industry’s new route crime strategy. The 16% reduction in route crime is to be applauded.’
‘Route crime is a serious problem for the railway network, costing the industry £150 million each year, causing 775,000 minutes of delay to train services and endangering safety. Whilst the industry’s new approach is starting to show results, more needs to be done to educate people, particularly young children, of the dangers.’
‘I’m encouraged to see the rail industry working closely with police and local communities to find solutions. Working in partnership with schools, parents, local authorities, the police and other groups is critical to driving down crime on the railway. Such an approach is one this Government is encouraging through all its crime prevention measures.’
Notes to Editors
The second annual National Railway Crime Week, beginning on Monday 16 June 2003, is organised by the strategic National Route Crime Group.
Events to mark the week include:
1. ‘Crucial Crew’ and ‘Junior Citizen’ Schemes.
2. ‘Eye in the Sky’ helicopter patrols with British Transport Police and railway staff.
3. Sport in the community for young people.
4. British Transport Police rapid response motorcycle patrols.
5. On-station displays and exhibitions in key areas.
6. Contact with every primary and secondary school in Britain.
Further information is available from the industry’s National Route Crime Group. Contact: Sue Nelson - 07876 246 125
