Transport 'should get free wi-fi'

Labour has called for free wi-fi to be on all trains and buses in Scotland

Free wireless internet access should be available on all trains and buses in Scotland, according to Scottish Labour.

The party said offering wi-fi would help make public transport "more attractive" to commuters and encourage them to ditch their cars.

Economy and skills spokesman John Park said the move should be one of a range of measures brought forward as part of a "Green New Deal" for Scotland.

A Scottish Government spokesman said it was already being considered on trains.

Mr Park said that to meet climate change goals more people needed to get out of their cars and into public transport.

'Sensible measure'

He said: "The best way to do this is to make trains and buses more attractive.

"This is a sensible measure that would be good for the economy and good for the environment."

Mr Park added: "In particular, I want to see those operators who benefit from public subsidy encouraged to raise their game."

A Scottish Government spokesman said record amounts were already being spent on public transport and that innovative ideas are already being considered.

The spokesman said: "Although the provision of wireless internet access on buses in Scotland is solely a matter for individual bus operators, the Scottish Government through Transport Scotland is already developing a business case for wireless provision on ScotRail services as part of the franchise agreement, which will report in due course."

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