Rail improvements cutting the journey time from Inverness to Edinburgh by 35 minutes will bring more business and visitors to Inverness, the heart of the Highlands, First Minister Alex Salmond said today.

Mr Salmond was speaking at Inverness Town House earlier today following the meeting of the Scottish Government's Cabinet, where he reiterated the Government's commitment to improve transport links, including plans for the dualling of the A9.

He said: "Transport is a fundamental part of the Scottish Government's drive to encourage sustainable economic growth.

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"These rail works will cut journey times, improve connections and shift more freight from roads to rail. The faster train journey between the capital city and the capital of the Highlands will undoubtedly attract even more visitors and businesses to the area.

"Equally, we have been clear in our commitment to invest in the A9 on a continuing basis. Key sections of the A9 have already seen improvements, with a programme of further works currently being taking forward. However, we must do more and that's why we will be giving very careful consideration to the options in the Strategic Transport Projects Review.

"Better, safer and faster transport links are key to our work to drive tourism, more investment and better opportunities into the Highlands to increase sustainable economic growth. When we make these important decisions, they will ensure improvements to road and railway networks will reduce congestion and respect the environment, improve road safety and unlock new economic opportunities for all of Scotland."

(GK/JM)