NEWS RELEASE - June 16th 1999

Legislative programme: Transport Bill

Colin Howden, Campaign Manager of TRANSform Scotland, said: "The inclusion of a Transport Bill in the legislative programme is a welcome first step towards meeting some of the promises made in last summer's Transport White Paper. While Westminster has so far failed to deliver on John Prescott's transport plans, the Scottish Parliament is off to a good start on the issue."

"The road user charging and workplace car parking elements of the Bill will enable local authorities to create new revenue streams. These will be important in meeting the public's desire for high quality public transport, walking and cycling projects."

"The provisions on bus 'quality partnerships' are also welcome - setting out how cooperation between local authorities and public transport operators can continue improvement in bus services."

On the lack of rail powers, Colin Howden commented:
"It is however disappointing that the legislative log-jam in Westminster means that it is unlikely the Scottish Parliament will be taking up its planned rail powers as yet. Labour in Westminster now has to ensure that the promised Rail Bill - which would create the Strategic Rail Authority - is found time in its legislative programme so that the Scottish Parliament is not held back on the issue."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:
(1) TRANSform Scotland is the national sustainable transport campaign, bringing together 56 organisations - including transport operators, local authorities, national environment and conservation groups, chambers of commerce and local transport groups - interested in transport, the environment and a sustainable Scotland. We can be contacted at 72 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh, EH6 5QG. Tel.: 0131-467-7714; Fax: 0131-554-8656; E-mail: campaigns@transformscotland.org.uk; web: http://www.transformscotland.org.uk

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