Working group takes first steps to tackle anti-social behaviour
Following the recent announcement the ScotRail alcohol ban is to be lifted, a Transport Scotland led Working Group agreed that this should come into effect by 2 June 2025.
From this date, alcohol may be consumed on ScotRail trains between 10am and 9pm. Other restrictions may apply, as determined by ScotRail and BTP, in certain circumstances such as large sporting events or concerts.
Another key focus for this short life Working Group, which met for the first time yesterday (8 May 2025), is to review the enforcement powers in relation to antisocial behaviour on Scotland’s railway to ensure swift action can be taken again persistent offenders.
The Working Group will map and assess current enforcement powers and their effectiveness, with a view to considering where these can be strengthened or developed further.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop said:
“I welcome the Working Group’s swift and decisive approach to determining the date the changes will be made to the current alcohol ban. It is by working collectively with those staff on the frontline and policy makers who understand the issues at heart that we can develop a meaningful and practical approach to tackle anti-social behaviour on Scotland’s railway.”
BTP Scotland's Chief Superintendent Lorna McEwan said:
"We welcome the confirmation of when the changes to the current alcohol ban will come into place.
Anti-social behaviour (ASB) remains a key priority for us. This working group will allow us to identify opportunities to tackle ASB through joint-working with key stakeholders and partners, so we can collectively make Scotland’s railway safer for everyone.
We take all reports of ASB seriously and would encourage the public and passengers to save our text number 61016, so they can report incidents to us.”
Kevin Lindsay, ASLEF said:
“We welcome the changes to the restriction on drinking alcohol on Scotrail trains, the lifting of this restriction should be backed up by a more visible presence of BTP on trains and at stations.”
Gordon Martin, RMT said:
“Rail workers are on the frontline and face threats and assaults on a daily basis and we welcome any efforts by ScotRail and the Scottish Government to address anti- social behaviour on trains and on railway property. This now includes there being active consideration of how legislation can increase protections for rail workers including stronger punishments for perpetrators.”
TSSA organiser Gary Kelly said:
"The alcohol ban was appropriate during COVID but has outlived its use. TSSA look forward to engaging with the working group and for the Scottish Government to implement real policy change that sends out the message that anti social behaviour on our railway is unacceptable".