MEP blows off steam about EU heritage rail regulations

4.58.37pm GMT Mon 20th Feb 2006

South West Lib Dem MEP Graham Watson has been letting off steam following recent reports that the new European requirements for the inspection of railways and installing new track would hit the five heritage railways across Devon, Cornwall and West Somerset with substantial bills. Mr Watson said:

"There is little if any truth in this latest Brussels scare story. The package contains exemptions specifically for heritage railways and particularly for those which operate at less than 25mph. These operators are deemed to be in a 'lower risk' category and are treated accordingly. The Health and Safety Executive, who are responsible for implementing the new regulations, have even said that these lines will be exempt but Europe is still getting the blame!"

The overall package is designed to improve rail safety and will improve inspections of track and signals, in attempt to avoid repetitions of rail disasters of the past few years.