So it seems, but why has this seemingly simple automatic switching not been implemented? I can't think of any situation where it would be necessary to proceed with reds at the front, so why not make it impossible by directional movement-activated switching?
I can't imagine even depot rules would want reds at the front - it's misleading to everyone, even at a walking pace. Have I missed something here?
1. Wrong direction movement of less than 400m/0.25 miles (reds front, whites rear)
2. Movement which is then detained on line used by trains running in opposite direction, in dark/snow/fog/tunnel (this one may no longer apply)
There are also some situations where trains must display whites at both ends.
Fairly esoteric situations which rarely arise, but which necessitate independent switching and control of lights irrespective of movement.
Very easy to leave with reds-up on the leading end. Staff will usually tell you by tapping their heads (meaning "head-light") and you can simply switch them over immediately. Far worse is leaving with whites-up on the rear as you then need to change ends in order to correct them. I've been on a train where this happened. The signaller contacted the driver by GSMR and instructed him to stop and correct the rear lights at the next station.