Publicly-controlled Bus Services Ringfenced Funding 2024-10-10
2024-10-10
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from the need for better public transport in constituencies like Blyth and Ashington, where funding and control over bus services are critical.
If she will take steps with Cabinet colleagues to ensure the provision of ringfenced funding for local authorities to deliver publicly-controlled bus services.
As part of our plan to deliver better bus services, the Government have committed to reforming bus funding by giving local authorities the tools they need to ensure services reflect the needs of the communities they serve. We want to give local leaders more control and flexibility over bus funding, and allow them to plan ahead to deliver their local transport priorities. We are considering how best to support buses in the longer term as part of the spending review.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific ringfenced funding commitment
We Are Committed
Considering How Best
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question follows up on the Better Buses Bill, focusing on ensuring adequate driver compensation and community involvement in route planning.
The Government's better buses Bill is a fantastic example of what a Labour Government can achieve and do. For the Bill to be successful, if funding is made available, we must ensure bus drivers are paid adequately and local residents have an input into the design, regularity and quality of routes. Will the Minister confirm that that will form part of the Bill and that this Labour Government will end the Tories' 14-year ideological war on municipal transport?
I agree with my hon. Friend. I reassure him that we are committed to delivering better bus services and that we will always put passengers first. Our forthcoming bus Bill is a crucial part of our reforms. When it is introduced later in this Session, it will increase powers available to local leaders, because those local leaders are best placed to make decisions on their bus networks, and remove the Conservatives' ideological ban on municipal bus companies.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific commitments regarding driver pay and public input
We Are Committed
Always Put Passengers First
Response accuracy