The Transport Select Committee has launched a report that looks at the possibility of the EU having greater involvement in railway security in the UK.

European Commission chiefs already set legislation to ensure high safety standards in the maritime and aviation sectors, as well as in the transportation of dangerous goods, but it seems unlikely that the UK government wants Brussels to govern the railways too.

Indeed, chair of the committee Louise Ellman said that passenger security is vital and it is essential that authorities constantly review safety standards across Britain's rail network.

She added that neither the government or industry showed any enthusiasm for greater EU involvement.

"But it is important for the government to push for greater action at a national level to address problem areas including the co-ordination of security measures at EU borders," Ms Ellman remarked.

The government has introduced a number of laws to enhance safety on public transport, including the Channel Tunnel (Security) Order 1994, Anti-terrorism Crime and Security Act 2001, Railways Act 1993 and the Aviation and Maritime Security Act 1990.