The Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney today paid tribute to Scotland's transport operators for their 'business as usual' approach, which has maintained services across Scotland throughout the fuel dispute.

Swinney was speaking at First ScotRail's Haymarket Depot where trains have been refuelling throughout the dispute.

He said that the scene mirrors the situation seen across Scotland during the dispute.

“The last week has been a testing time for us all, but the response from everyone has been extremely encouraging.

“The public have been measured and responsible, and our transport operators have been working to ensure that services have remained unaffected across Scotland.”

He added: "While production resumes, we all have to be patient and continue to use fuel wisely to allow supplies to return to normal levels.

"People across the country therefore have the chance to think about their travel habits, limit their car use and take advantage of the regular public transport services on offer.”

Swinney added that the Government had been encouraged by the co-operation shown by Ineos management and Unite to ensure production can resume quickly and that essential services are maintained.

He added: "I am also very pleased to see that both sides are once again engaging in meaningful discussions following the recent industrial action. We have always said that the best way for both parties to solve their differences is to get around the table. To see them doing that is a positive step forward.

"Hopefully this will pave the way for a resolution to the dispute in the coming days.

"Meanwhile, the Scottish Government will continue with our own work to resolve the outstanding issues arising from the industrial disruption and to ensure we have effective fuel supplies available in every part of Scotland."