Obstacle on rail

There is a possible political issue provoked by awarding First Group the West Coast franchise for 13 years (Business Comment, 27 August). Scottish ministers have already argued for more powers to run Scotland’s rail network and improve services.

Will this contract be binding on a Scottish Government if there is a Yes vote in the referendum? It is doubtful an independent Scottish Government would accept the structure or funding of the railways. The transport minister, for example, recently suggested the public sector should run rail services in Scotland. Surely because of the political significance of this franchise it would be sensible to postpone it.

Ellis Thorpe

Old Chapel Walk

Inverurie, Aberdeenshire