Does a distant signal indicate conditions affecting track use between itself and the next signal?

A distant signal is designed to convey information about the status of the next signal ahead, rather than indicating conditions affecting the track use between itself and the next signal. The primary purpose of a distant signal is to provide advance warning to the train crew about the indication of the upcoming signal so they can prepare to respond appropriately. It might display a "clear" or "approach" aspect based on the upcoming signal's indication, but it does not provide information about the conditions of the track itself, such as track maintenance, other trains, or any temporary restrictions that may exist between the distant signal and the next signal.

In summary, the distant signal's role is specifically related to informing the crew about the next signal's aspect, rather than any intervening track conditions.