PRESSURE is growing on the SNP government to permanently scrap peak fares on Scotland’s rail network.

The fares had been scrapped in October in a six-month pilot that Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop stated was “aimed at achieving” net zero targets.

The scheme has since been extended pending a Scottish government decision on its future.

But now Scottish Greens transport spokesman Mark Ruskell has joined earlier calls from rail unions, climate activists and the STUC, to demand flat fares be made permanent.

“The removal of peak rail fares, and the shift to off-peak fares all day, has already supported hundreds of thousands of commuters through the cost-of-living crisis and encouraged people to get out of cars,” he said.

“Cheaper, greener railways can and must be key to tackling the climate crisis and supporting workers and families.”

Newly sworn-in First Minister John Swinney cautioned: “I have to be mindful of the fact that everything has to be paid for.

“The peak rail fares pilot has been a very, very good measure. It’s been very effective.

“We obviously have to look at the resources involved in supporting that on a permanent basis.”