Spain’s Transport Minister Resigns After Two Deadly Rail Crashes

Spain’s Transport Minister Óscar Puente announced his resignation on November 3 after two deadly rail crashes in less than a year killed a total of 115 people. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez named Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo to lead the Transport Ministry temporarily the following day, while Puente’s departure remains pending publication in the official state gazette. Puente announced his decision during a parliamentary session examining the October 28 collision near Urda, in Toledo province. The crash killed 69 people. A separate collision near Adamuz in January killed 46. Investigations into both incidents are continuing. Addressing lawmakers, Puente said a transport minister could not remain in office after two accidents of such severity in less than a year, regardless of whether he bore direct responsibility. He said he had decided to leave soon after the October crash but stayed on to manage its aftermath and present measures intended to improve safety. Sánchez praised Puente after announcing Cuerpo’s temporary appointment. The prime minister said Cuerpo had demonstrated management ability and integrity, and would continue reforms begun by Puente. The appointment was...