Bus Franchising

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons am 4:57 pm ar 9 Medi 2024.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Richard Holden Richard Holden Ceidwadwyr, Basildon and Billericay 4:57, 9 Medi 2024

It is great to hear of the success the previous Government’s £1.1 billion investment into Greater Manchester’s Bee Network is helping to deliver. I was delighted to launch it with the Mayor of Greater Manchester. As the Minister mentioned, one of the key things about the postcode lottery is the cost of using the bus. It can really put people off, particularly in rural areas where bus costs have traditionally been a lot higher. Is the Minister going to look at extending the Get Around for £2 scheme, which has been a real success, particularly for access to education opportunities and for those in lower paid work in rural areas? It has really helped to drive bus passenger numbers upwards since the end of the pandemic.