Minister Announces Rail Security Review Following Train Stabbings
The UK government is set to review rail security following a series of recent knife attacks onboard trains. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced that measures would be implemented to enhance safety for passengers. This decision comes after a violent incident on a train operating between Doncaster and London.
Incident Overview
A man identified as Anthony Williams, 32, has been charged with ten counts of attempted murder. The attack, which occurred on a Saturday night, targeted passengers after boarding at the Peterborough station. Eleven individuals required hospitalization, including a train staff member in critical condition.
Government Response
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated that the government aims to respond proactively. She emphasized that the British Transport Police (BTP) would increase patrols at major rail stations to reassure the public. Alexander remarked that incidents of this nature are extremely rare, highlighting that the UK rail system maintains a low crime rate.
Statistics on Rail Crime
- Only 27 crimes per million passenger journeys.
- Recent incident resulted in 11 injuries.
Future Security Measures
In her statements, Alexander indicated the government’s commitment to enhancing rail security. The following initiatives are proposed:
- Investment in improved CCTV systems at stations.
- Consultation on the use of facial recognition technology.
- Increased visibility of police officers in mainline stations.
Regarding the use of luggage scanners similar to those in airports, Alexander noted that such technology may not be appropriate for UK rail stations at this time. Former BTP Chief Constable Andy Trotter also voiced concerns about passenger safety, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures and increased police presence to address public fears.
The government is keen on ensuring that rail travel remains safe for all passengers, moving swiftly to implement these improvements. The upcoming review aims to build a more secure travel environment across the UK’s rail network.
