Seven people died in the Potters Bar rail crash in May 2002

Six passengers and a passer-by were killed when a London to King's Lynn train derailed close to Potters Bar station in May 2002.

Alistair Darling said he did not believe "on legal or general policy grounds that it is necessary or appropriate to hold an inquiry".

The CPS ruled in October that no rail staff would face criminal charges.

On Thursday, Mr Darling said he made his decision not to hold a public inquiry "after careful consideration".

I think it's a disgrace. We have a government that doesn't give a damn for its vulnerable citizens Nina Bawden, victim

Author Nina Bawden, whose husband Austen Kark, 75, was killed in the crash, said: "I am shocked and appalled there is to be no public inquiry.

"I think it's a disgrace. We have a government that doesn't give a damn for its vulnerable citizens."

Ms Bawden, who was badly injured in the accident, added: "This crash killed seven, injured more than 70 and ruined people's lives.

"A public inquiry would enable us all to be told what happened. It helps to know precisely what happened.

"An inquest will not provide the full answer. I am so angry about this."

'Recommendations met'

Explaining his decision, Mr Darling said: "Three investigations into the accident have taken place, by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the British Transport Police and the Rail Standards and Safety Board.

"The HSE interim reports made recommendations in order to avoid a similar accident in the future and I am satisfied that these recommendations have been acted upon."

An HSE report into the crash said poor maintenance led to the points failure which caused the derailment.