04/08/2003

Railway staff to gain some policing powers

Railway staff could gain some policing powers to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, under proposals unveiled by Transport Minister Kim Howells.

Under the proposals, the British Transport Police would be able to accredit certain skilled and trained employees of railway companies, including station staff, with limited police powers to deal with specific offences and public nuisances on the railways.

The new powers would allow the selected staff to issue fixed penalty notices for offences such as dog fouling, dropping litter and trespassing.

Mr Howells said: "We are all aware that the activities of a few inconsiderate people disturb the journeys of many people. The new measures that we are proposing today will give people at the front line of our rail services the powers they need to deal swiftly and effectively with crime and antisocial behaviour.

"I believe that by training key staff, we can greatly reduce the inconvenience that some people's behaviour causes, and free up some of the valuable resources of the British Transport Police."

The consultation will invite responses from anyone interested in security on the railways, including the rail industry, the Association of Chief Police Officers, the BTP, the Association of Police Authorities and the Local Government Association.

The consultation closes on Monday 27 October.

(GMcG)

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