FO EV RT ER NI Y GH T
ISSUE 316 28 JUNE 2024
NEWS, VIEWS AND ANALYSIS FOR A SECTOR ON THE MOVE
CPT seeks clarity on future of £2 fare cap
The Labour Party’s manifesto makes no mention of the cap, which has supported the bus industry’s post-Covid recovery over the past 18 months Bus operators have expressed disappointment at Labour Party’s silence on the future of England’s £2 bus fare cap. The fare cap has been in place since January 1, 2023, and has helped to support the bus industry’s post-Covid recovery. However, Labour’s manifesto makes no mention of it, prompting fears that it could be withdrawn if the party wins next week’s general election. Representing bus operators, Graham Vidler, CEO at the Confederation of Passenger Transport, said: “In the short term, the industry needs urgent clarity on the future of the English £2 fare cap which ends on 31 December
2024. It is disappointing that the Labour manifesto is silent on this because passengers could continue to benefit from industry and government working together to keep fares low, particularly if investment is targeted on key passenger groups, such as under 22-year-olds.” The Conservative Party’s
“It is disappointing that the Labour manifesto is silent on this” Graham Vidler, CPT
manifesto pledges to retain the £2 fare cap for the next Parliament. Meanwhile, CPT has welcomed Labour’s manifesto commitment to a long-term transport strategy. “This commitment must be matched with a five-year long-term spending programme, as happens for rail,” said Vidler. “Nothing less will ensure local authorities and operators can maximise investment in buses, drive a swift and smooth transition to a zero emissions fleet, and deliver what passengers want: more bus services going to more places that are also more reliable and quicker.” A LOOK AT THE MANIFESTOS: PAGES 10-11
NEWS
Relief in Derby as train order is confirmed
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Elizabeth Line deal saves Litchurch Lane
NET ZERO
Wrightbus aims for NewPower market
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Bus builder launches re-power solution
COMMENT
An agenda for action for new government
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Norman Baker offers 20 steps for success
COMMENT
RALPH ROBERTS RECOGNISED
Renewed 36 is the perfect bus service
Ralph Roberts received the Lifetime Contribution to Transport award at last week’s Scottish Transport Awards in Glasgow. Roberts has led McGill’s for 14 years and the firm is now the UK’s largest independent bus operator. He has also represented the industry in various prominent roles. He is pictured with the event’s host, Jo Caufield, and Passenger Transport editor Robert Jack.
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McGill’s CEO honoured at Scottish Transport Awards
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Alex Warner looks at long-admired route
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26/06/2024 17:32