A framework for Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, and Scottish ministers, published on Wednesday, 25th March, sets out Westminster and Holyrood’s commitment to achieving a more integrated railway for Scotland.

The agreement defines how both governments will work together to exercise their respective responsibilities after the establishment of Great British Railways (GBR) so that the railway in Scotland will be easier to use, more responsive to local needs, and provide more transparency about who is responsible for delivering improvements.

Scottish ministers will continue to have control over funding for Scottish rail infrastructure, as well as having the responsibility for specifying and providing Scotland’s passenger services.

The establishment of GBR will not affect current decision-making powers, but will improve coordination with the rest of Britain’s railway network.

Once the Memorandum of Understanding has been signed, it will form a key part of reforming Britain’s railways through the Railways Bill, including:

• Setting out the way to achieve a clearer and more accountable railway for Scottish passengers.
• Protecting devolved responsibilities since improvements to services will be agreed between Transport Scotland and GBR.
• Improvements in services, investment, and passenger information will be more relevant to Scottish priorities.

The key benefits for Scotland from the framework include better integration of track and train, to ensure Scotland derives the same benefits as the rest of the UK from the creation of GBR, whilst responsibility for setting the strategy, specifications and funding infrastructure and providing passenger services in Scotland will remain with Scottish ministers.

A new livery has been created for trains operating under the guise of Great British Railways.

“Under the Railways Bill and following the introduction of Great British Railways, the Scottish Government will have a new, strengthened role and a bigger say in how the railway is run to improve local connectivity. At its heart, this framework is about improving outcomes for passengers and communities. By placing decision-making at the heart of rail in Scotland, we will ensure services and investment are better tailored to Scottish passenger and freight customer priorities.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander