Alcohol ban introduced on all of ScotRail’s trains and stations

The consumption of alcohol on trains and in stations will be banned from Monday, ScotRail has confirmed.
Scotrail announce an alcohol ban which will take effect from next week.Scotrail announce an alcohol ban which will take effect from next week.
Scotrail announce an alcohol ban which will take effect from next week.

The operator said the temporary measures, which were first revealed by the Scotsman and Edinburgh Evening News last month, will ensure social distancing and greater use of face coverings during the coronavirus pandemic.

Body cameras will be worn by rail staff to help enforce the 24-hour restrictions and British Transport Police will be called if someone refuses to stop drinking.

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Passengers will still be able to carry unopened alcohol in a bag.

Alcohol is currently banned on ScotRail services between 9pm and 10am.

ScotRail said the measure will be “reviewed continuously as government guidelines change”.

David Lister, ScotRail’s sustainability and safety assurance director, said: “Throughout the pandemic, our people have been working flat out to deliver a safe and reliable service for customers throughout the country.

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“Our five rules for safe travel have been followed by customers and the introduction of these restrictions on alcohol will help to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe.

“We ask that everyone travelling on our trains, and passing through stations, play their part and comply with this clear guidance.”

Mick Hogg, regional organiser for the RMT union, said: “RMT welcome this ban on alcohol that will help to keep our staff and passengers safe.”

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