House of Commons · General Debate
16 June 2020 · 5 other contributors
Opened by Rachel Maclean Con Wythenshawe and Sale East
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Rachel Maclean raised concerns about public passenger transport in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The draft regulations require bus operators across England to publish data electronically, including timetables, fares, and location data. This initiative aims to encourage the use of local bus services by making journey planning easier through apps like Citymapper and Bus Times, which have already demonstrated significant economic benefits in London.
The draft regulations require bus operators across England to publish data electronically, including timetables, fares, and location data. This initiative aims to encourage the use of local bus services by making journey planning easier through apps like Citymapper and Bus Times, which have already demonstrated significant economic benefits in London.
Supports the measures to improve health and safety on buses, including mask-wearing. Acknowledges the financial support provided by the Government but calls for a fairer distribution of funding based on cost of living. Advocates for continued support until passenger demand returns to normal levels. Emphasises the decline in bus use since 2010 due to cuts and subsidies loss, leading to isolation and environmental damage. Supports sharing of data but cautions against disruptive businesses like Uber undermining services. Calls for councils to regulate services and run their own companies to increase usage. Suggests measures such as more bus lanes, housing close to public transport routes, investment in innovation including electrification.
Advocates for a national bus strategy that would introduce hydrogen technology and develop a new carbon-free bus building programme.
Supports the spirit of the regulations but warns that collecting data on bus services in rural areas like Cumbria will be difficult due to sparse service. Acknowledges some government efforts, such as additional funding and a national bus strategy, but criticises them for being insufficient. Emphasises the need for long-term financial support to rebuild trust in bus services among communities, especially older populations. Argues that public transport is crucial for air quality improvement and carbon reduction goals. Proposes doubling capacity of the Lakes line and electrification. Also highlights young people's access issues to education due to lack of reliable public transport.
Calls for adherence to discussing regulations, urging MP Tim Farron to focus on the specific topic at hand rather than making a broader speech about his constituency's issues.
Government Response
Defends the purpose of the regulations as providing better services and enabling technology integration for public transport. Acknowledges concerns raised by Tim Farron and assures him that they have been heard. Provides details on £220 million funding for rural bus services and a £5 billion commitment to buses, including investments in electric buses and cycling infrastructure.