18.06.12
The power to choose
Scottish ministers are concerned with UK legislation that “limits” their ability to improve rail services for passengers and argue that decisions must be made closer to the communities they serve.
Is their power truly constrained? If the Scottish Government is supplying the majority of investment into the railway, they should hold the corresponding responsibility for rail improvements and have the freedom to consider all options for rail services.
As part of a wider move towards devolution, this could indeed reflect passenger need in their respective localities. It is often thought that the more options available, the better the resulting choice.
While this may be true, it should also be noted that more options will result in a more costly and perhaps difficult decision. Bigger is not always better.
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]