Transport minister admits he is not an expert – on transport
ByGareth McPherson
Humza Yousaf says the government are committed to improving walkways and cycle routes.
The man in charge of Scotland’s roads and railways has admitted he is not an expert on the topic.
Humza Yousaf made the concession as he was grilled by MSPs over his record in holding contractors to account on the country’s beleaguered rail network.
Amid spiralling costs to improve ScotRail services, Transport Minister Mr Yousaf insisted the SNP government was “monitoring closely every single project”.
But he caveated his answer by characterising himself as “not being an expert”.
Scottish Conservative MSP Jamie Greene said: “Mr Yousaf passed the buck to Network Rail and then admitted he wasn’t even a transport expert.
“There have been plenty of warnings about the cost overruns at Network Rail. The least people expect is a minister with the expertise necessary to get a grip.”
Mr Yousaf appeared before MSPs amid growing anger from commuters over delays, cancellations and overcrowding on ScotRail services, which are run by Abellio.
Earlier, a Transport Scotland report revealed it will now cost £1.5billion for five improvement projects aimed at getting Scotland’s under-fire rail system back on track.
Transport minister admits he is not an expert – on transport
