NEWS RELEASE
STUC WELCOMES HATFIELD PROSECUTIONS
The STUC has welcomed the announcement that charges have been brought against Balfour Beatty, Network Rail and individual managers following the Hatfield rail crash. Ian Tasker, STUC Health and Safety Officer said:
"The timing of this announcement is particularly welcome following the collapse of proceedings against gas supply company Transco, a case where the charges of culpable homicide against the company were deemed irrelevant.
While supporting the cause for higher standards of health and safety on the railways we are concerned that the Transco case has dispelled the mistaken belief that the offence of Culpable Homicide was appropriate for prosecuting cases where workers or members of the public are killed.
The STUC recognises that this case is far from over, but it does highlight the need for legislation to be introduced in Scotland ensuring that future cases, similar to the explosion in which the Findlay family lost their lives, are not ruled incompetent or irrelevant.
We will be raising the issue with the Justice Minister at the earliest opportunity".
Ends
For Further information Contact: Ian Tasker