Bus Firm Owner Accuses Scottish First Minister of Dictatorial Behavior Over Public Control Plans

A prominent Scottish bus operator has sharply criticized First Minister John Swinney's administration over its plans to re-regulate bus services, accusing the leader of dictatorial conduct. Sandy Easdale, co-owner of McGill's, a major bus firm, stated that Swinney has adopted the demeanor of figures like Idi Amin or Robert Mugabe, leaders whom Easdale claimed bankrupted their countries with flawed financial policies.

Swinney, speaking at the SNP conference, announced that bus services would be brought under public control by 2031 through franchising and regulation, with legislation to be introduced in the Scottish Parliament next year. These changes are intended to grant regional transport partnerships greater authority over routes and fares without requiring direct government ownership of the services.

Despite these criticisms, Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth asserted that the government's objective is to protect the public, citing recent route closures as a primary concern. Gilruth characterized the current private bus model as a remnant of policies from Margaret Thatcher's era, which she contended limited state intervention. "We're going back to an approach that better protects people," Gilruth stated, referencing Edinburgh's public transport model as an example of how public control can benefit passengers.

Gilruth also noted that the Easdale brothers are significant donors to the Labour Party. She emphasized that the Scottish government is already investing heavily in public transport, pointing to initiatives such as free bus travel for individuals under 22 and over 60, and the extension of the £2 bus fare cap. The £2 cap, currently covering specific regions, is planned to be expanded nationwide by 2031. Gilruth affirmed that the government remains open to working with bus operators like McGill's to gather their perspectives on the evolving plans.