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The Herald Scotland
7 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Scot Gov declines to reveal cost of Intercity bids process
Asked for comment, leading rail union ASLEF has said the government must be transparent in its dealings and ensure that any purchases benefit taxpayers. Transport Scotland announced in December that the Intercity fleet, which consists of 25 high speed trains (HSTs) serving routes between Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness; would be replaced. However, six months later, details of the bidding process are scarce. Scot Gov refused to provide details of the procurement process (Image: Jane Barlow/PA).According to Public Contracts Scotland, the deadline for bidding on the contract was 3 February, while selected candidates were invited to submit tenders on 3 March. The procurement notice states that a contract is expected to be awarded by 28 November, running until 31 December 2035. Responding to our FOI request, the Scottish Government declined to share any details of the firms involved, informing The Herald: 'Please note that due to the sensitivity of the commercial information related to the replacement of the High Speed Trains, some commercial details of this procurement would be considered confidential, as releasing them would or would likely substantially harm ScotRail's economic interests.' When asked to provide details of the cost incurred since the procurement process began, the government wrote: 'It would not be possible to ascertain with confidence how much has been spent so far, as preparation for any exercise of such a scale involves a staff cost element (including Scottish Government, ScotRail Trains and Scottish Rail Holdings employees) and it would not be possible to attribute this element with accuracy.' However, The Herald has been told that the search for bids, expected to last 12 months, is going according to schedule. Train drivers' union ASLEF has weighed in (Image: Danny Lawson/PA).Train drivers' union ASLEF has called on the government to commit to more transparency going forward. Scottish Organiser Kevin Lindsay told The Herald: 'Our members wish to see a fleet which meets with modern crashworthiness standards. 'Transparency should be at the heart of the Scottish Government's procurement process. Procurement processes to replace rolling stock should always benefit the taxpayer, not the rolling stock companies.' Lindsay went on to say that any future procurements should be carried out using the government's existing borrowing powers, instead of relying on 'profiteering' rolling stock companies. The union boss previously wrote to then-Transport Minister Kevin Stewart in April 2023, urging him to replace 'antiquated' HSTs with modern 222s units, which were described as 'safe and clean'. However, these suggestions were dismissed 'out of hand' at the hand, according to the union. Concerns over the 50-year-old fleet were raised in the wake of the deadly Carmont rail crash west of Stonehaven, which tragically claimed the lives of Christopher Stuchbury, Donald Dinnie and Brett McCullough in August 2020. Three years later, a driver's cabin was crushed after a HST struck a fallen tree in December 2023 near Broughty Ferry. While the train's driver was able to shelter behind his seat, the safety of the aging fleet was again brought into question. The deadly Carmont crash led to questions over the future of the HST fleet. Now, a new report released by ASLEF, entitled 'A Vision for Financing Scotland's Railways', states that the government could save the taxpayer millions of pounds if they use green bonds (funds earmarked for environmental projects) to pay for the new fleet. The report's co-author Professor Andrew Cumbers, of Glasgow University, said the government could save as much as £362m. He remarked: 'Our research suggests that funding the next generation of rolling stock directly through the Scottish Government's existing borrowing powers, using Green Bonds, could be as much as 70% cheaper than through private finance. 'For the next order of suburban passenger trains, we have calculated that savings of at least £144m and up to £362m (compared to a private finance deal) could be made. 'Rather than leaking out of the system to fund private profits, this revenue could be used to reduce ticket prices and invest further in the country's transport infrastructure, while creating local jobs and training opportunities.' Read more from Josh Pizzuto-Pomaco: Top Scottish universities to review trans policies after Supreme Court ruling Drivers racked up £1.7m in LEZ fines since 2023, figures show Aberdeen City Council's £1m law bill revealed amidst spate of legal challenges Responding to The Herald's request for comment, ScotRail declined to say how many firms were involved in the procurement process. ScotRail Strategy & Planning Director Scott Prentice noted: 'We know the high-speed trains have been popular with customers on routes connecting Scotland's eight cities, but replacing the oldest trains in our fleet is essential to encouraging more people to choose rail over car travel. 'Replacing these trains will improve service reliability and fleet availability, delivering better journeys for customers across the country. It also means more trains will be available for service each day for customers in Fife, the Borders, and between Aberdeen and Inverness. 'This is a key step in our wider plan to modernise the fleet in partnership with Transport Scotland and Network Rail.'
Scottish Sun
14 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Rising mob boss who sparked fresh Scots turf war ripped-off in £500k drug deal as he was seen as ‘a nobody'
An insider said Daniel rivals the Lyons could have 'sorted' McGill's grievance GANG REVENGE Rising mob boss who sparked fresh Scots turf war ripped-off in £500k drug deal as he was seen as 'a nobody' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) RISING mob boss Ross McGill was ripped off in a £500,000 drug deal because he was seen as 'a nobody', it was claimed. Sources say dealers decided to 'bump' the ex-Rangers ultras leader, nicknamed 'Miami', as they'd never heard of him. 3 The former Union Bears Ross 'Miami' McGill pictured with Steven Gerrard 3 Sources claim he was ripped off because he was seen as "a nobody" But the fateful move to pay for the coke haul with fake cash triggered the Dubai-based Scot's wrath and sparked the vengeful gang war raging in the central belt. The claims emerged after a wave of attacks on associates of jailed Edinburgh cocaine kingpin Mark Richardson, 38, and Glasgow's Daniel clan. An insider said Daniel rivals the Lyons could have 'sorted' McGill's grievance. They told The Scottish Sun on Sunday: 'The people linked to Richardson who McGill has been dealing with have thought, 'He's out in Dubai and he's nobody so let's just bump him'. 'Then McGill has set out to stamp his authority because he's trying to make a name for himself. 'He could have had it sorted in two minutes if he had spoken to the Lyons who'd have got his gear back. 'Instead he's caused complete carnage.' We told how ex-Union Bears ultra McGill, 31, from East Kilbride, fled abroad in 2022 after skipping court on drug dealing and gangsterism allegations. It is claimed he spotted an opportunity to move in on drugs networks on the brink of collapse when key players were arrested after cops smashed the encrypted Encrochat phone network. His operation is now said to be worth a £3million a month. The FULL story of Scotland's biggest gangster Jamie 'The Iceman' Stevenson Coming This Sunday An insider said: 'He made good contacts in Spain and offered to fill the void. 'He worked his way up and switched to Dubai. He was unknown but things changed when he got bump- ed and decided on revenge.'
Wales Online
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Doctor Who's Ncuti Gatwa breaks silence on 'heartbreaking' exit after two series
Doctor Who's Ncuti Gatwa breaks silence on 'heartbreaking' exit after two series Doctor Who viewers saw Ncuti Gatwa's final scenes as the Time Lord on Saturday night Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa has spoken out about his decision to step down as the Doctor, having concluded his two-series stint on the BBC show. Ncuti's final scenes as the Doctor aired during the two-part season finale, which wrapped up on Saturday night (May 31). In the episode, the Doctor faced off against the villainous Rani (Archie Panjabi) in an epic battle to save the world, and made the ultimate sacrifice to save the life of a young girl. Addressing his departure, Ncuti stated: "You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it. "This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe." Ncuti Gatwa has left Doctor Who after two series Ncuti continued: "The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show and I can't thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in, and making this such a touching experience," reports Belfast Live. "I've loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have." He concluded: "I'll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor." The Sex Education star's tenure as the Time Lord began during the show's 60th anniversary celebrations in November 2023, marking a milestone with a unique bi-generation storyline. Throughout his adventures, Ncuti was joined by companions Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) and Belinda Chandra (Varada Sethu) as he travelled through time and space. Ncuti's Doctor regenerated on Saturday night His performance earned him numerous accolades, including a Best Actor award at the 2024 BAFTA Cymru Awards. He also received nominations for a BAFTA Scotland Audience Award for Favourite Scot on Screen, and Best Actor in a Drama Series at the 2025 Critics Choice Television Awards in the US. At the end of tonight's instalment, Ncuti's Doctor regenerated into Billie Piper, who first appeared in the Whoniverse as much-loved companion Rose Tyler back in 2005. Commenting on Billie's return, showrunner Russell T Davies stated: "Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she's done it again! "It's an honour and a hoot to welcome her back to the TARDIS, but quite how and why and who is a story yet to be told. After 62 years, the Doctor's adventures are only just beginning!" Billie added: "It's no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that TARDIS one more time was just something I couldn't refuse, but who, how, why and when, you'll just have to wait and see." Billie Piper has returned to the Whoniverse After the finale aired, Doctor Who enthusiasts swiftly took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express their sadness over Ncuti's departure, but were thrilled by Billie's comeback. A fan commented, "In 18 episodes, 15 has become one of my all time favourite Doctors and I can't even begin to put into words how heartbroken I am that he's gone. I'm genuinely so devastated by it, I've not stopped crying for about 45 minutes." Another shared, "I was beyond captivated by Ncuti and it meant the world to me for him to be The Doctor and so unapologetically himself. I'll miss him." Article continues below Regarding Billie's return, a third viewer exclaimed, "I'm actually here for this. I'm sorry to anyone who's not.. but this is MAD.. and I'm here for it, genuinely am here." Doctor Who is available to stream on BBC iPlayer
Scottish Sun
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
‘You just knew' – Scott McTominay's first coach reveals where Man Utd went wrong with ‘special player'
Scot was so good as a kid that those who worked with him kept mementoes SCOTT THE LOT 'You just knew' – Scott McTominay's first coach reveals where Man Utd went wrong with 'special player' SCOTT McTOMINAY was discarded by Manchester United but has stolen the heart of Naples. Named Serie A player of the year, the Scot fired Antonio Conte's men to the Scudetto and earned a place in Neapolitan folklore alongside the great Diego Maradona. Advertisement 9 Scott McTominay has quickly gone down in Napoli folklore Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 9 The midfielder and his flag took centre stage in the victory parade Credit: Reuters 9 Napoli heroes including the Scot met Pope Leo XIV Credit: Alamy 9 McTominay's dedication to football as a kid shone through And the midfielder celebrated in serious fashion — smoking, dancing and knocking back Scotch straight from the bottle during Napoli's trophy parade. He was even granted an audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican and his new-found celebrity status is richly deserved, too. McTominay, signed for £25million from Old Trafford on deadline day last summer, bagged 12 goals and the Serie A Most Valuable Player gong in a stellar season. The 28-year-old got the title party started on their final day of the season with a stunning scissor-kick finish against Cagliari. Advertisement While United needed to flog the academy product for financial reasons, McTominay was also ready for a new challenge. At Napoli, he found a boss in Conte who sees him as the heart of a side, rather than someone who can fill gaps here and there. Conte's faith brought the best out of the Scot — who is on national team duty next week for friendlies with Iceland and Liechtenstein — and his exploits in Italy have surprised many back home. Though those who worked with him early on were so confident he would hit these heights, they kept mementoes from day one. Advertisement 9 All-time great Diego Maradona was at Napoli from from 1984 to 1991 Credit: Getty 9 Antonio Conte celebrates his first Italian title with Napoli, having won it three times with Juventus and once with Inter Milan Credit: Getty BEST ONLINE CASINOS - TOP SITES IN THE UK Charlie Jackson, founder of Matrix Soccer Academy, was McTominay's first coach at United when he joined as a five-year-old. Advertisement He told SunSport: 'There were no video phones in those days but I wish we could have filmed him as you'd have seen a special player. Scott McTominay dances with old fan while puffing on cigarette as never-ending Napoli title party continues 'I've got his first shirt, his first training shirt and his first football — that we've got in a glass case — because you knew. You just knew.' Jackson, who also aided the development of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton and Fulham left-back Antonee Robinson, added: 'He was tenacious, he wanted to learn. 'We'd spend maybe 1½ hours on a session and he'd spend another 20 minutes afterwards, wanting to master what he'd just done. Advertisement 'I'd have to have another few kids to do a drill and do the same thing again with him because he just wanted to get it. 'It's rare you see that in a child that age.' McTominay was never fully utilised by successive United managers after being handed his Red Devils debut by Jose Mourinho in 2017. Jackson explained: 'Jose was just fantastic for him. Gave him his debut, looked after him. Advertisement 'Scott always works off confidence and a pat on the back. If you believe in him, he'll run over coals for you. Conte's done that. Mourinho did that as well.' 9 McTominay has had a dream year after exiting Old Trafford Credit: Getty Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plus in-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford 9 Advertisement McTominay almost did not sign for Napoli, who were very close to landing Marco Brescianini until a late change. How glad they must be McTominay was their pick. Fans have donned kilts in his honour and a Maradona-style mural popped up on the streets of Naples. Everyone has been won over, with Italian sports paper La Gazzetta dello Sport hailing him as 'the highlander who came from Manchester to tear our championship apart' and 'the symbol of the Scudetto'. Advertisement There will certainly be some red faces in Manchester, seeing one of their own go on to this success. After a season of watching players lacking character and fight, and finishing a dismal 15th in the Prem, McTominay is exactly the sort of player they need. Earlier this season, former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer shared his amazement by saying: 'How you can sell Scott is beyond me.' The biggest fear in Manchester is this might only be the start. Advertisement Jackson, who keeps in touch with McTominay, added: 'The best is yet to come for him. I don't think you've seen anything yet. 'I used to say to his dad Frank, 'He'll never be looked at as world class and it's a shame but he should be because he is'. 'He had success with Man United but to go and do what he's now done . . . and there is much, much more to come. 'That's the biggest thing that I can say about him — it's just the tip of the iceberg, honestly.' Advertisement 9 Maradona won two Serie A crowns with Napoli Credit: AP MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: All the latest deals and rumours from Old Trafford
The Irish Sun
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘You just knew' – Scott McTominay's first coach reveals where Man Utd went wrong with ‘special player'
SCOTT McTOMINAY was discarded by Manchester United but has stolen the heart of Naples. Named Serie A player of the year, the Scot fired Antonio Conte's men to the Scudetto and earned a place in Neapolitan folklore alongside the great Diego Maradona. Advertisement 9 Scott McTominay has quickly gone down in Napoli folklore Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 9 The midfielder and his flag took centre stage in the victory parade Credit: Reuters 9 Napoli heroes including the Scot met Pope Leo XIV Credit: Alamy 9 McTominay's dedication to football as a kid shone through And the midfielder celebrated in serious fashion — smoking, dancing and knocking back Scotch straight from the bottle during He was even granted an audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican and his new-found celebrity status is richly deserved, too. McTominay, signed for £25million from The 28-year-old got the title party started on their final day of the season with a stunning scissor-kick finish against Cagliari. Advertisement READ MORE IN FOOTBALL While United needed to flog the academy product for financial reasons, McTominay was also ready for a new challenge. At Napoli, he found a boss in Conte who sees him as the heart of a side, rather than someone who can fill gaps here and there. Conte's faith brought the best out of the Scot — who is on national team duty next week for friendlies with Iceland and Liechtenstein — and his exploits in Italy have surprised many back home. Though those who worked with him early on were so confident he would hit these heights, they kept mementoes from day one. Advertisement Most read in Football 9 All-time great Diego Maradona was at Napoli from from 1984 to 1991 Credit: Getty 9 Antonio Conte celebrates his first Italian title with Napoli, having won it three times with Juventus and once with Inter Milan Credit: Getty BEST ONLINE CASINOS - TOP SITES IN THE UK Charlie Jackson, founder of Matrix Soccer Academy, was McTominay's first coach at United when he joined as a five-year-old. Advertisement He told SunSport: 'There were no video phones in those days but I wish we could have filmed him as you'd have seen a special player. Scott McTominay dances with old fan while puffing on cigarette as never-ending Napoli title party continues 'I've got his first shirt, his first training shirt and his first football — that we've got in a glass case — because you knew. You just knew.' Jackson, who also aided the development of 'We'd spend maybe 1½ hours on a session and he'd spend another 20 minutes afterwards, wanting to master what he'd just done. Advertisement 'I'd have to have another few kids to do a drill and do the same thing again with him because he just wanted to get it. 'It's rare you see that in a child that age.' McTominay was never fully utilised by successive United managers after being handed his Red Devils debut by Jose Mourinho in 2017. Jackson explained: 'Jose was just fantastic for him. Gave him his debut, looked after him. Advertisement 'Scott always works off confidence and a pat on the back. If you believe in him, he'll run over coals for you. Conte's done that. Mourinho did that as well.' 9 McTominay has had a dream year after exiting Old Trafford Credit: Getty Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plus in-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford 9 Advertisement McTominay almost did not sign for Napoli, who were very close to landing Marco Brescianini until a late change. How glad they must be Fans have donned kilts in his honour and a Maradona-style mural popped up on the streets of Naples. Everyone has been won over, with Italian sports paper La Gazzetta dello Sport hailing him as 'the highlander who came from Manchester to tear our championship apart' and 'the symbol of the Scudetto'. Advertisement There will certainly be some red faces in After a season of watching players lacking character and fight, and finishing a dismal 15th in the Prem, McTominay is exactly the sort of player they need. Earlier this season, former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer shared his amazement by saying: 'How you can sell Scott is beyond me.' The biggest fear in Manchester is this might only be the start. Advertisement Jackson, who keeps in touch with McTominay, added: 'The best is yet to come for him. I don't think you've seen anything yet. 'I used to say to his dad Frank, 'He'll never be looked at as world class and it's a shame but he should be because he is'. 'He had success with Man United but to go and do what he's now done . . . and there is much, much more to come. 'That's the biggest thing that I can say about him — it's just the tip of the iceberg, honestly.' Advertisement 9 Maradona won two Serie A crowns with Napoli Credit: AP
