Scottish Government Statement in response to UK Government Railways Bill

A Scottish Government spokesperson said:

“The Scottish Government position remains that a fully devolved railway is in Scotland’s best interests, and we are disappointed this was not agreed by the UK Government.

 “We support the policy intent of the UK Railways Bill as it seeks to deliver the integration of track and train we have been operating in Scotland for some years and we welcome the opportunity it provides to achieve even greater integration on a statutory, rather than informal, basis.

 “Integration of track and train in Scotland has already delivered significant operational improvements, enhanced value for money through shared resources, and better passenger outcomes including fewer cancellations and higher satisfaction scores. The deeper level of integration this Bill seeks to provide will enhance these benefits further still.

 “Through extensive discussions, over several months, Ministers have secured provision in this UK Government Bill that not only respects and protects existing devolved rail powers, but also enhances them in areas where Sottish Ministers set strategy, specify and fund the railway.

 “As this Bill enters the Legislative Consent process within the Scottish Parliament, Ministers and officials will continue to engage with the UK Government to get the best outcome for Scotland’s railway.”