12-05-2025
Linlithgow MSP welcomes her party's programme for government for the next year
First Minister John Swinney has promised 100,000 additional GP appointments, scrapping peak rail fares for good and introduces a range of measures to grow the Scottish economy nationally and internationally.
Linlithgow MSP Fiona Hyslop has welcomed her party's programme for government for the next year.
First Minister John Swinney has promised 100,000 additional GP appointments, scrapping peak rail fares for good and introduces a range of measures to grow the Scottish economy nationally and internationally.
Commenting, Fiona said: 'I welcome the SNP's Programme for Government which has a real focus on the everyday issues that affect the lives of people in Scotland and will benefit many in West Lothian.
'The SNP Government will continue its work to build the best future for Scotland through a range of measures, including scrapping peak rail fares, improving access to GPs, piloting a £2 bus fare cap, and helping families with childcare, maintaining increased funded childcare hours which will support more parents into work.
'I am pleased to see this Programme for Government has been brought forward early, a year ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections, ensuring the people of Scotland will benefit from the delivery of it at this critical time.
'This Programme for Government will deliver for the people of West Lothian by fighting child poverty, funding strong public services, encourage economic growth and produce high quality jobs, demonstrating that the SNP is building the best future for Scotland.'
From September 1, peak ScotRail fares will be permanently abolished, encouraging more people to choose train travel and helping with Cost-of-Living pressures.
Fiona added: 'As the Minister who launched the ScotRail Peak Fares Removal Pilot in October 2023, which successfully saved commuters in West Lothian hundreds of pounds, I am pleased to see that peak fares will now be permanently removed.
'The removal of peak fares will benefit many of my Constituents in West Lothian, who commute to Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling, making rail travel more affordable, which will support households as we continue to deal with the Cost-of-Living Crisis.
'I hope that the removal of peak fares will encourage the use of rail travel, which is a more reliable, sustainable and greener transport option.
'The 2025-26 Programme for Government is committed to putting more money in people's pockets, and the removal of peak fares will make commuting, day trips and access to leisure activities even more affordable for all.'
