Tom Harris, a former UK Government transport minister in Tony Blair’s administration, is no stranger to the complexities of the railway industry. In 2018, he voiced concerns over the nationalisation of Scotland’s railway, calling it “childish and counter-productive.” Fast forward to the present day, and Mr. Harris is urging the Scottish Government to approach the issue with an open mind, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the private sector to ensure the success of nationalisation efforts.
With ScotRail returning to public ownership in 2022, followed by the Caledonian Sleeper a year later, the landscape of Scotland’s railway system has undergone significant changes. Currently, four operators in England are under government ownership, signaling a broader trend towards nationalisation across the UK. Despite his reservations about nationalisation, Mr. Harris acknowledges the reality of the current situation and emphasizes the need to make it work through strategic investment and effective management.
Private Sector Expertise in Public Hands
Mr. Harris’s perspective on the importance of private sector involvement in the railway industry stems from his belief in the value of expertise and market understanding that private enterprises bring to the table. Drawing parallels to the healthcare sector, where the NHS often collaborates with the private sector for specialized services, he advocates for a similar approach in the railway industry. By tapping into the knowledge and experience of private sector professionals, Mr. Harris argues that gaps in the public sector can be effectively addressed, leading to a more efficient and cost-effective railway system.
Looking Towards a Concession Model
In his 2018 report on the future of Scotland’s railways, Mr. Harris highlighted the success of the rail industry post-British Rail, attributing much of this success to private sector discipline and franchising. He suggested a concession model that blends public and private sector involvement, with the government shouldering both profit and risk while allowing the private sector to manage the service. This model, according to Mr. Harris, strikes a balance between the benefits of nationalisation and the operational efficiencies of private sector management.
As discussions around the future of Scotland’s railway system continue to unfold, Mr. Harris remains steadfast in his belief that an overly ideological approach to nationalisation can hinder progress. He cautions against viewing nationalisation as a one-size-fits-all solution, emphasizing the need for practicality and flexibility in decision-making. Ultimately, he advocates for a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of both public and private sector entities to drive innovation and sustainability in the railway industry.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop’s commitment to maintaining public ownership of Scotland’s railways under the SNP-led government underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the optimal structure for the country’s railway services. While differing opinions exist on the role of nationalisation in the industry, one thing remains clear – a balanced and inclusive approach that combines the best of both worlds is essential for ensuring the long-term success and viability of Scotland’s railway network.
