Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions as he had with Train Operating Companies on staff recommencing ticket inspections; and what steps he is taking to ensure that staff safety is prioritised and safely managed as covid-19 restrictions are relaxed.

As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the safety of all rail workers and passengers continues to be our priority. The job of revenue protection staff is a vital one in ensuring that journeys are properly paid for and also their presence and visibility creates an essential sense of security for passengers. We have issued guidance to train operators on the steps they need to take to protect staff in line with Public Health England advice, as well as safer travel guidance for passengers, both of which are regularly reviewed and updated.

Within the context of this guidance, Train Operating Companies are expected to carry out risk assessments regularly and consider how best to implement safe methods of working, including how and when to resume revenue protection duties.