PRESS RELEASE

22 October 2002

LIVINGSTONE MUST INTRODUCE CONTINGENCY PLANS FOR TUBE SAFETY SAYS OTTAWAY

Richard Ottaway, Conservative MP for Croydon South, has called on Ken Livingstone to introduce contingency plans for the safety of London Underground during the Fire Brigades' Union strike.

Richard Ottaway said:-

"There is no need to shut London Underground stations during the Fire Brigades' Union strike. The Mayor of London and the Government should be setting up contingency plans to provide safety cover for the Underground."

"The Channel Tunnel, which is in a similar position, has set up contingency plans which have been approved by the Channel Tunnel safety body. The Mayor of London, who is responsible for London's emergency services, should be working on similar plans for approval by the Health and Safety Executive."

Ends.

For further information please call 020 7219 6392.