Trams question

Earlier this year The Scotsman published the findings of research by Professor Tom Rye et al, of Heriot-watt university, showing that infrastructure costs in Scotland could be five times that, or more, than in comparable countries. I have some experience of construction and was frankly puzzled as to how this could come about. I could imagine 50 per cent or 100 per cent… but a 500 per cent difference?

This past Wednesday Richard Walker, who was managing director of Bilfinger Berger UK, the contractor for the Edinburgh tram line, gave evidence to the enquiry that at the date of signing no drawings or technical specifications were part of the contract.

If this were indeed the case, signing the contract on behalf of the city was an act of wilful recklessness. It was not a con-

tract, it was a wish list being handed to the contractor with a signed blank cheque drawn againstthepeopleofscotland, and their children’s, account.

One now begins to understand the 500 per cent figure and wonder how often this happens and is left unremarked. But what can we do about such casual incompetence, how do we achieve accountability?

Surprisingly, our laws make provision for such cases. No one has been mugged and there is no suggestion of dishonesty, but the public trust has been betrayed and undermined. Millions that could have gone to the care and education of the people have been thrown to the wind. The criminal offence of Misconduct in Public Office seems to fit the case. Conviction can carry a substantial custodial sentence Whether the organs of government would wish to use that against one of their own… “That could create a most unfortunate precedent, Minister”

DAVID HOGG

Glanville Place, Edinburgh