|
The SNP government is considering introducing a new high speed rail network in Scotland if the line is extended north of the border.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that UK transport secretary Justine Greening will delay making a decision on the London-Birmingham high speed rail line until January.
Should the project be given the go-ahead, the SNP has announced their intention to part-fund a new improved rail network as long as the line is extended from the north-west of England to Scotland.
In an interview with BBC Radio Scotland, infrastructure minister Alex Neil said: "In the select committee of the House of Commons last month a report was produced saying - why don't the Scots start themselves.
"Now, we are willing to look at that if we get a guarantee, in particular that the gap in England between Birmingham and the north of England, is going to be closed."
The extension of the line is estimated to cost £15 billion, with the Scottish government set to contribute between £8 billion and £9 billion to the project.
|