To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what safety training is given to contractors' staff working on British Rail tracks; and what assessment he has made as to the adequacy of these arrangements.

Contractors' staff working on British Rail tracks receive the same thorough safety training as British Rail employees exposed to the same risks. Improving the safety of all personnel working on tracks is a strategic objective in British Rail's safety plan. The Health and Safety Executive's railway inspectorate monitors the safety arrangements for railway employees and contractors.