No free bus passes for under 22s, says government
Summary
The British government decided not to trial free bus passes for people under 22 years old, citing lack of funds. This proposal was initially suggested to help improve transport services, but the government says it cannot afford it under current budget plans until 2028/2029. The government also rejected another suggested improvement related to setting minimum service levels for buses.Key Facts
- The UK government will not trial free bus passes for people under 22.
- The decision was based on current budget limitations until 2028/2029.
- A recommendation to ensure minimum levels of bus services was also rejected.
- Bus journeys in England have decreased recently, while fares have increased faster than inflation.
- Lower bus use and higher fares create barriers to opportunity and growth in some areas.
- Critics argue that the government lacks ambition in improving bus services.
- The government plans to give local authorities more control over bus services.
- The bus sector's economic contribution fell by about £8.9 billion from 2011 to 2023.
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