In response to the Potters Bar inquest, a spokesperson for the Association of Train Operating Companies said: “The tragic events at Potters Bar will never be forgotten.

“Safety on the railways is the highest priority for everyone in the industry and safety procedures on all parts of the network continue to improve.

“A report by the Office of Rail Regulation earlier this week confirmed that the UK railways are among the safest in Europe, but we must never be complacent. Train companies will study carefully all recommendations made by the coroner.”