Labour Calls On Ministers to `Postpone Scotrail Franchising`

Labour are calling on the Scottish Government to postpone the franchising of Scotrail after details have emerged of the profits made by the current administration.

Scotrail have recorded nearly £100m in profit since 2008, with £95 million of that going into the pockets of shareholders.  In the financial year for 2012/2013, ScotRail received £511 million worth of public money, and paid shareholders £12 million in dividends.

The new operator of the ScotRail franchise is due be announced by Keith Brown this month.  

Scottish Labour back suspending the process until after the devolution of further transport powers which will allow Holyrood to accept a non-profit bid.

Transport Unions, including the RMT, TSSA and ASLEF back the move, warning that failing to suspend the bid would render new powers over transport “meaningless” for over a decade.

Keith Brown has previously spoken of his support for a non-profit bid as part of his pitch to become deputy leader of the SNP, and Deputy First Minister.

The winning bidder for the ten year contract is due to be announced by the end of this month.