23.01.14
Alcohol ban ‘is working’ - ScotRail
In 2013, the British Transport Police dealt with just four incidents related to the specific alcohol byelaw which began to be enforced by ScotRail the year before.
In July 2012, ScotRail banned the consumption and carrying of alcohol on its trains between 9pm and 10am. It also refuses travel to those who are not considered fit to do so due to the effects of alcohol.
The ban was introduced in response to concerns about anti-social behaviour and low-level crime. Crime on the Scottish railway has now fallen for the ninth consecutive year.
Jacqueline Taggart, customer services director at ScotRail, said: “This is welcome news and demonstrates that the vast majority of rail passengers respect – and welcome – the ban. I would like to thank people for their co-operation in this regard.
“We remain committed to working with BTP to support our customers and staff in this important area. 2014 is an important year for Scotland and, as a major transport operator, we take our contribution very seriously.”
Superintendent (Operations) John McBride of the Scotland area of BTP also welcomed the low number of offences, adding: “The message that anti-social behaviour at stations and on trains is unacceptable is clearly being heeded by those who use the rail network. We will continue to support ScotRail in ensuring everyone can travel and work without encountering unwelcome or unwarranted disorderly behaviour.”
John Mason, MSP, convener of the Cross Party Group on Rail in the Scottish Parliament, said: “With record numbers of passengers using Scotland’s railways, I welcome the fact that ScotRail’s campaign is cracking down on alcohol-related behaviour on late evening services. Of course there are still problems but we are going in the right direction. ScotRail is to be congratulated on its policy, which is improving the overall passenger experience.”
David Birrell, chief executive of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “We welcome ScotRail’s crackdown on alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.
“The ban will improve perceptions as well as make travel more pleasant for the vast majority of Scottish rail passengers. In turn, this will boost the Scottish and Edinburgh economy – in particular, by encouraging more shoppers and families as well as leisure travel and tourism.”
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(Library image: David Jones / PA Wire)