Transport Secretary comments on Edinburgh Tram Inquiry report

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Mairi McAllan received the report of the Tram inquiry shortly before its publication this morning. Commenting on the report she said:

“The Scottish Government places the highest importance on the efficient spending of public money. It is why the Public Inquiry was set up and given statutory powers to thoroughly investigate matters. It is also why we committed significant resources to diligently support the Inquiry and to engage meaningfully and openly with it.

“However, the inquiry took too long, was too costly and in some instances the evidence heard does not support the conclusion drawn.

“Clearly all organisations and individuals who gave evidence to the Inquiry, including the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland who have just received the report, must take our time to consider the detail and the recommendations. Having done that I will provide a more comprehensive response to Parliament, and respond to Members' questions, in due course.”