Scotrail services cut back
Scotrail services will be gradually reduced from next week as demand drops away during the coronavirus outbreak.
The Department for Transport said it had agreed with rail operators across the country to scale back timetables from Monday as people change their travel habits to help stop Covid-19 spreading.
Cores services will continue to run to help people attend medical appointments and allow emergency services and NHS staff get to work.
The coronavirus pandemic's impact on the public's travel patterns has seen demand for rail travel decline by up to 69% on some routes, the DfT said.
The joint move from the Government and rail industry will also enable freight services to continue.
It follows speculation in the industry that a number of train operators are on the verge of being brought under Government control due to plummeting passenger numbers.
Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “Following discussions with rail industry partners, passenger services will see a reduction as we continue to tackle the coronavirus.
“We know that rail provides an important service in moving passengers and goods around the country however we will reach a point where travel is reduced to essential journeys only.
“Moving to a reduced timetable will not only help ensure some passenger services continue to run, it will enable freight to be prioritised so goods and emergency supplies such as medicines can be moved around the country.
“Constructive dialogue has been held with rail unions with discussion focused on protecting rail staff while they make a significant contribution to keeping passengers and goods moving as much as possible in these challenging circumstances “We are also investigating ways to provide proportionate relief to operators, while also ensuring contractual incentives remain to mitigate the impact of doing so.
Any changes to rail franchise contracts, including funding mechanisms, will be made in the best interests of the public and business communities.
Alex Hynes, Managing Director of Scotland’s Railway, said: “We are facing an unprecedented challenge on Scotland’s Railway and revising the timetable will help to provide a critical service for the key workers across the country.
“Our people are committed and are working flat out on the frontline to help keep the country moving, while also keeping themselves and customers safe.
“The railway has an important role to play during this crisis and we are working closely with the Scottish Government to do all we can.”
The reduction in services will be similar to a Sunday service, with some additional first and late last trains for key staff.