This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Cross Border Rail Services
23/07/2004
The Executive's advice to the Strategic Rail Authority about the franchise for the East Coast line has been published.
It states that the next franchise should also incorporate all existing service levels between London and all Scottish train stations.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen said Scottish passengers expect improvements to the reliability, speed and frequency of cross-border train services on the East Coast.
He said:
"Improvements to reliability, speed and frequency are our priority for train services in Scotland.
"We are securing these for passengers travelling within Scotland through the new ScotRail franchise and it is important that the new East Coast Mainline franchise ensures there are integrated, reliable connections with cross border services.
"As infrastructure improves, we also want faster line speeds to reduce journey times and increase frequency of service.
"The East Coast Mainline is a key cross border route which carries services through Edinburgh to Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow, and currently provides the only service at Dunbar in East Lothian.
"The new franchise should build on the previous franchise and must incorporate the existing service levels between London and all Scottish destinations.
"The Scottish Executive recognises the significant issues faced by the rail industry since the previous advice was issued. We would support constructive proposals which will achieve better services for passengers."
The Scottish Executive can issue non-binding advice to the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) about cross-border passenger railway services.
Scottish Ministers previously gave non-binding guidance to SRA in June 2000 in respect of the current East Coast Mainline franchise.
Following the rail review, the Secretary of State for Transport Alistair Darling announced on Thursday, July 15 that the SRA is to be abolished.
Under the new arrangements the Executive will be able to issue non-binding advice to the Department for Transport.
The current East Coast mainline franchise is operated by GNER. In May 2004, the SRA pre-qualified four bidders for the franchise. One has subsequently withdrawn.