PURSUING VALUE FOR MONEY IN SCOTTISH TRANSPORT

In a discussion of transport policy economics, concerning Scotland's public transport system, the author evaluates the distribution of financial resources for the support of such services. Difficulties of providing adequate transport links are created in rural areas by problems of distance, isolation and the need to include sea passages in some cases. The development of low-cost express coach services between the main Scottish centres following the 1980 Transport Act has benefitted, for example, those dependant on public transport although such services are considered to threaten the viability of rail services supported by local authorities. Although competition within a transport mode, and between modes, must be allowed for maximum efficiency, there are rural areas where there is only sufficient demand to allow one operator supported by a subsidy. Aspects of policy discussed include the pursuit of increased efficiency throughout the area, the provision of adequate infrastructure and the payment of operating subsidies where necessary. (TRRL)