UK Coach Industry

Local coach operators are vital for school transport in rural areas, and the Minister should highlight this importance to the Treasury.

Brian Leishman expressed concern about the 115 job losses at the Alexander Dennis site in Falkirk and the awarding of 166 buses to a Chinese company under the Scottish zero emission bus challenge fund, arguing that the SNP government's decision to back Chinese competition instead of supporting Scottish workers and manufacturing is detrimental to the local economy and wider supply chain. He criticized the SNP's strategy as a furlough scheme without any real action to save jobs and manufacturing in Scotland, advocating for direct state procurement to support Scottish workers and businesses. Stressed the importance of manufacturing and sovereign capability in the bus and coach sector, highlighting the need for UK domestic manufacturers to have the support needed to carry out their vital work.

Coaches in tourist hotspots such as Cambridge face parking arrangement issues that have not been properly addressed.

David Chadwick acknowledged the vital role of the coach industry in connecting rural communities and supporting tourism in Wales, expressing concerns over rising operating costs and the recruitment of new drivers. He called for the continuation of a freeze on fuel duty and proposed a 10p cut in fuel duty to provide relief to coach operators. He also stressed the need for funded category D licence training and reform of the driver apprenticeship system.

He highlighted the end of primary coachbuilding in the UK and the importance of Government support for the sector's transition to zero emission coaches. He warned against poorly designed schemes that send money to Chinese manufacturers, leading to job losses and industrial capacity loss. He called for a focus on incentivising British manufacturers and ensuring that future support schemes take into account social value and national security. Questions why SNP members change their stance on the coach manufacturing industry depending on which Parliament they are sitting in.

Coaches are vital for school transport, tourism, and business transportation. Operators face challenges due to high fuel costs and a lack of government support. A recent survey found that 41% of operators would withdraw from home-to-school contracts and 18% would consider closing if high fuel prices persist. The industry requires targeted financial relief, such as a freeze on fuel duty and measures to increase fuel supply. Regulations should be technologically neutral to enable businesses to buy vehicles that meet the required standards. Skill shortages in the industry need to be addressed through opportunities for young people to develop the necessary skills. Highlights that the Treasury has received over £1 billion in unexpected income from VAT on higher fuel prices and suggests using this to support the coach sector.

Does my hon. Friend agree that there needs to be greater recognition of excellent companies such as Hutchison Engineering and Wrightbus in Northern Ireland, which frequently hold fantastic exhibitions to demonstrate their expertise? We need more recognition of and support for coach builders.

Coaches account for 450 million passenger journeys annually in Great Britain and support 81,000 jobs, generating £6.4 billion in economic value. High fuel prices, increased operating costs, and a shortage of drivers are major concerns for the industry. The driver vacancy rate is 14%, and the Government's tax regime and regulatory restrictions further hinder the industry's viability. Modern coaches cost upwards of £250,000, and operators need certainty to invest in their fleets. The coach industry requires support to address these challenges and to transition towards net zero emissions.

Coaches play a crucial role in Northern Ireland, particularly for community events such as the 12 July parade. Across the United Kingdom, some 2,500 coach operators have faced a 46% increase in diesel prices since February this year. For many industries, the question is no longer how to turn a profit but how to stay afloat. Some 38% of coach companies say they are likely to withdraw from home-to-school transport contracts due to the rising operating costs, which have not been matched by the rates they receive. The coach sector supports some 81,000 jobs and generates £6.4 billion in economic value. We must support the economic contribution of the coach sector. Agrees with the Minister on the importance of energy efficiency and suggests that the Government should push for it across all companies.

Restrictions on young people driving coaches are a barrier to recruitment, and changes to training and driving regulations would attract more young people into the industry. Asks the Minister for a rebate on fuel to help coach operators and vulnerable people affected by rising fuel prices.

John McDonnell emphasised the importance of coaches for tourism and their environmental benefits compared to cars. He highlighted the need for more coach parking spaces and the significance of coaches in bringing passengers directly to tourist destinations.

Local businesses like Eastbourne Coaches and Lynns Travel Eastbourne should be supported, alongside larger companies like National Express, to address the poor railway service in Eastbourne.

Laura Kyrke-Smith highlighted the economic and social importance of coaches in Aylesbury and across the UK, praising local operators but expressing concern over rising costs and fleet reductions due to increased expenses such as insurance, diesel, and energy. She suggested improvements in transport and planning policy, addressing the skills shortage, and providing financial support to coach operators struggling with costs. Called for closer collaboration with local authorities to address planning challenges and improve coach connectivity, recognizing the critical role of coaches in local economies.

Stanley Travel, based in North Durham, faces significant challenges due to rising fuel prices, costing an additional £9,690 per week. The company also struggles with driver and technician shortages, inadequate parking facilities, and the need for cleaner technology. A clear pathway into coach driving, accessible training, and apprenticeships are needed, along with a road map for cleaner technology and funding support. Raised concerns about the restrictions affecting younger drivers and the ability of 18 and 19-year-olds to drive buses and coaches on regular services of up to 50 km. He also mentioned the need for support in addressing cost pressures and the impact of rising fuel prices.

Emphasised the economic benefits of the coach industry, highlighting 450 million passenger journeys annually and £8.3 billion in local economies. Noted regulatory and economic challenges such as driver shortages, planning issues, and workforce pressures. Called for Government engagement with the EU on pre-registration and digital documentation, exemption for coach drivers from the 90/180 Schengen rule, and investment in port and border infrastructure. Stressed the importance of coaches in connecting rural communities and supporting elderly residents, emphasizing the need for better information and closer coordination with rail, bus, and local transport.

Acknowledges the value of the coach industry in supporting local heritage and tourism.

Local coach companies in Runcorn and Helsby, such as Anthony's Travel, face financial pressure due to rising diesel costs and bridge tolls. The cost of crossing the Mersey Gateway and Silver Jubilee bridges can add up to £19.20 for a return crossing, contributing to the financial strain on these essential services. Pochin calls for meaningful toll relief and fair treatment in future transport funding and support.

Seamus Logan highlighted the importance of family-owned coach companies, such as Maynes Coaches in his constituency, which play a crucial role in connecting rural communities, supporting schools, and contributing to the tourism sector. He expressed concern over the European Union entry/exit system's impact on international coach operators and called for the UK Government to simplify border controls and explore pre-registration for coaches. Logan also raised the issue of rising fuel prices, urging the Government to outline steps to mitigate the increase in the upcoming Budget. Highlighted the impact of the coach sector on local communities and tourism, emphasizing the importance of coach connectivity for the local economy and supporting elderly residents.