WOMEN'S safety on public transport should be prioritised, according to Chris Pond MP.

But despite calls to increase staffing at stations Connex -- which boasts a £4m budget for improving security over the next three years -- says it is not increasing the number of security guards at stations.

Connex spokesman David Ewart told the News Shopper: "We have recruited more revenue protection inspectors, but not security guards. There will be 45 new inspectors for lines along Dartford and Gravesend, and Hayes and Orpington. It brings the total number of inspectors in this area up to 115 BTP reports show crime in the south east area has fallen by 30 per cent during the past year, with incidents at some north Kent stations down by half."

Calling on Connex South Eastern to speed up its moves to improve safety at its train stations in Gravesend, Chris Pond said: "Poor staffing at Gravesham's stations is an issue already raised. I know Railtrack are looking into improving CCTV coverage in places like Higham and Northfleet stations. But staffing levels need to be looked at again."

Mr Ewart said: "Security guards already patrol trains on three routes in north Kent -- the Woolwich, Sidcup and Bexleyheath lines. There's alot we are doing to enhance security of all our customers: upgrading lighting and getting rid of "hidden areas" at stations."

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