McInnes condemns 'contrary' transport decision

5.30.00pm GMT Thu 7th Feb 2008

Liberal Democrat Transport spokesperson Alison McInnes MSP has condemned the Scottish Government's contrary transport funding decision.

Speaking in a debate about the Local Government Finance (Scotland) Order, Mrs McInnes said:

"The decision to end direct capital funding to Regional Transport Partnerships is deeply regrettable. It will, without a doubt, prejudice their ability to deliver quickly and effectively on already agreed objectives.

"The Finance Secretary says on the one hand that he sees a role for RTPs and on the other that he will give them no capital funding. He regularly tells us in chamber and at committee that he thinks the best way to deliver strategic transport projects is to ensure robust project management details and clear lines of accountability.

"This makes his decision on regional transport capital grants all the more contrary.

"The Finance Secretary must act quickly to ensure that the money intended for these vital transport projects actually gets there."