Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Bus Travel Affordability: Children and Young People 2026-07-16

Thursday 16 July 2026 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Government is funding free bus travel for kids across England in August 2026
  • Confirmed over 3 billion for buses from 2026-27
  • Colleagues are considering offering driving lessons through apprenticeships

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Amanda Martin Lab
Transport
Context

The question addresses the importance of free and affordable bus travel for children to access opportunities such as education, training, and leisure activities.

Question

What steps has she taken to help increase the affordability of bus travel for children and young people?

Answer from Simon Lightwood

The Government is funding free bus travel for kids across England this August; it builds on local initiatives from Labour Mayors in the west and north-east of England allowing children to travel by bus for free.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not specify steps taken beyond funding free bus travel in August

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Q2 Amanda Martin Lab
Employment Transport
Context

The question discusses barriers such as poor transport links and the need for driving lessons through apprenticeships, particularly in coastal communities.

Question

What steps is the Minister taking with colleagues in other departments to break down barriers to opportunities for young people considering skilled careers, especially those in rural or coastal areas? Will the Government consider offering driving lessons through apprenticeships?

Answer from Simon Lightwood

Through the Bus Services Act 2025, local leaders are given greater power to shape bus services around their needs; confirmed over £3 billion for buses from 2026-27. My colleagues in other departments have heard her call regarding driving lessons through apprenticeships.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Did not commit to offering driving lessons through apprenticeships

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Q3 Clive Jones Lib Dem
Transport
Context

The question enquires about the possibility of extending a successful summer scheme providing free bus travel to under-15s in Wokingham.

Question

If this summer's free bus travel scheme for under-15s proves successful, will the Minister look to extend it for the future?

Answer from Simon Lightwood

Beyond March next year, we will continue to keep our options open to ensure that bus travel is safe, accessible and affordable for everyone.

Not addressed: Did not commit to extending the scheme if successful

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