FM urged to lift Scotrail booze ban

HUMZA Yousaf has been urged to lift the Scotrail alcohol ban in time for Christmas, with a Conservative MSP claiming the measure penalises “law-abiding Scots.”

The First Minister told parliament that a final decision was still to be made on the issue, but that he was very aware of the need to ensure passengers felt safe and the role drink played in anti-social behaviour.

The strict rule forbidding alcohol was brought in at the start of the Covid pandemic in a bid to keep travellers socially distant.

Previously, passengers could drink before 9pm and were able to buy beer, wine and spirits on most mainline trains.

Tory MSP Douglas Lumsden asked the First Minister to provide an update on the future of the policy during First Minister’s Questions.

Mr Yousaf replied: “Firstly, I should acknowledge that there are quite a wide range of views on this very issue.

“My priority is ensuring that Scotrail services are safe, are enjoyable for all users and staff. But specifically, women and girls where we know of the role that alcohol often plays in making women feel unsafe.”

He said the Transport Minister had asked officials at Transport Scotland to engage with the British Transport Police and the national train company “to ensure that all views on continuing the alcohol ban on Scotrail trains are given due consideration and all impacts assessed.”

The SNP leader said trade union leaders had also been approached. Mr Lumsden said the ban was already being ignored by trouble makers.

He told MSPS: “People who indulge in anti-social behaviour are ignoring the ban and drinking anyway.”