Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps his Department plans to take to ensure (a) the implementation of a zero tolerance policy towards sexual harassment on the public transport network and (b) that all allegations of sexual harassment on the public transport network are taken seriously and investigated fully; and if he will make a statement.

Everyone has the right to feel safe when travelling and using public spaces. The Department for Transport is working closely with Home Office on the Government’s cross-departmental strategy to address Violence Against Women and Girls.

The rail industry has a well-established strategy and programme of work to target sexual harassment. Tackling incidents of sexual harassment is also a policing priority for British Transport Police who have developed a significant programme of work in recent years. We are working hard to support these work streams and deliver best practice across the whole transport network.

However, we are keen that we do more to ensure everyone is safe when using public transport. This is why I was delighted with the appointment earlier this year of DfT’s first Violence Against Women and Girls Champions.

The Champions will be engaging with campaign groups, industry and Government to understand areas for improvement across the UK’s transport network. By January 2022 they will produce independent recommendations for the department and wider transport network on what best practice should be adopted to improve safety of the transport network for women and girls.