Networkers Meet Richard Benyon MP.
In November 2006, just after the second anniversary of the crash, a group of networkers including Liz Capewell had a meeting with the Newbury MP, Richard Benyon. He listened to personal stories and shared his experience on the night. There was a discussion about the safety of level crossings, rolling stock and the question of seatbelts on trains. Networkers were also able to put to him their views about what happened following the crash – treatment by the police and emergency services, provision of information and offers of counselling, and the longer term issues of dealing with the MIB and HCML.
The impact on survivors and bereaved families of delaying the inquest was an important topic of discussion. Richard Benyon has publicly stated that the delay is a scandal and said that he had contacted Vera Baird MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary in the Department for Constitutional Affairs, who is responsible for overseeing a major reform of the legal aid system. He also said that he would take up the issue of the inquest venue with the Coroner, as many people feel strongly that Windsor Guildhall will not hold as many people as want to be present.
Since the meeting a networker has had a reply to her enquiry to the Coroner's Office stating that they will try to find a more suitable location for the inquest than Windsor if possible. To date, bereaved families are still waiting to hear whether legal aid can be granted for legal representation at the inquest.