Scottish Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth MSP debates railway priorities at SNP conference

Scottish Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth MSP debated rail issues with rail experts and delegates at the SNP conference in Aberdeen on 9 October.

In a fringe event at the conference – organised jointly by RIA Scotland and the High Speed Rail Group – the minister spoke of the need to develop strong railway infrastructure in Scotland, providing sustainable transport for people and freight, as well as supporting highly-skilled jobs. 

She envisaged rail playing a leading role in supporting the Scottish Government’s goal of achieving Net Zero by 2045 and spoke of the importance of electrifying the railway north of the border, and of ensuring that HS2 high speed rail trains could link to Scotland when the scheme is built.

Commenting on the event, Scottish Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth MSP thanked RIA Scotland and the High Speed Rail Group for providing the opportunity to debate these issues and committed to continuing that engagement recognising that the rail supply chain is essential to delivering a world-class railway in Scotland.

Meirion Thomas, RIA Scotland chair, said: “It was great to see Scottish Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth being so constructive today in discussing priorities for Scotland’s Railway, whether the need to invest in rail infrastructure and the importance of decarbonising the network, including by ramping up electrification, or working to ensure HS2 trains can get to Scotland. We are also pleased that Ms Gilruth acknowledged the role the rail supply sector can play in supporting jobs and boosting the economy.

“I would like to thank Minister Gilruth for her positive approach, and we look forward to continue working closely with her and the Scottish Government, Transport Scotland, Network Rail and others, to deliver a successful, vibrant railway industry in Scotland in future.”

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