EXPERTS are sifting through the evidence to find out why three people died in this week's fatal rail accident at Charlton.

Mid Worcestershire's MP Peter Luff was querying the training levels of people expected to use unmanned rail crossings within hours of emerging unhurt from the crash, as a passenger of the train that collided with the minibus.

He also questioned the driving standards of the foreign labourers used in the Vale's fruit and vegetable growing industry.

"The fundamental questions that must be asked are likely to focus not so much on the safety of unmanned farm crossings but on the warnings and training provided to people using them," said Mr Luff.

"Reputable local employers of casual foreign labour - the so-called gangmasters - have expressed concern to me about the fact that many foreign workers are using out-of-date international licences, drive unlicensed mini-vans and are often working illegally anyhow.

"Local growers need foreign casual labour but we must make sure that they are driving on British roads safely and legally and meet all health and safety requirements. That is why I have tabled a series of questions to Defra, DTI and the Department of Transport.

"Whatever the result of the inquiry into the accident, I hope it will focus attention on the need to drive up standards in the gangmaster business, to the standards that the best already follow."