Railways – Jamieson Calls for Not for Profit Franchise

30 July 2008


Cathy Jamieson today pledged support for a fundamental review of Scotland’s railways. She said that a not for profit Network Rail was not enough.

"I believe in putting passengers before profit. I back the Co-operative Party’s call for the mutualisation of Network Rail on a not for profit basis.

"But we need to go further.

"The way the SNP Government extended FirstScotrail’s franchise is a disgrace.

"There was no consultation and they excluded passengers, trade unions and other key stakeholders from their deliberations.

"I want a Parliamentary enquiry into the franchise.

"We have seen no evidence that it delivers value for money.

"And when the current contract expires I want a not for profit franchise.

"Those who depend on railways want a more effective and efficient system.

"I want safety as the top priority.

"And I want the money generated to be ploughed back into improving standards and services.

"A not for profit franchise could do this with passengers coming first."

Kevin Lindsay, ASLEF’s District organiser for Scotland, said,

"We welcome the statement from Cathy Jamieson and ASLEF endorses Cathy’s call for a not for profit franchise in Scotland.

"ASLEF has always put passengers first and will continue to do so."


Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.