James MacColl, Head of Campaigns, Campaign for Better Transport said:

“We echo the views of the Transport Committee in that buses play an important role in connecting communities, especially in rural areas, enabling people to access jobs, shops and other vital public services.

“The Bus Services Bill needs to enable devolved authorities to take control over their local services. This will allow them to respond better to local needs and invest in the improvements that people want to their buses like new services, better connections and smart ticketing.
 
“Also, the Government must take the opportunity to reverse declining bus use nationally by using the Bill to introduce a national investment strategy for buses - it's time that buses were neglected no more.” 

For further information please contact Richard Watkins on 020 7566 6494 / 07984 773 468 or richard.watkins@bettertransport.org.uk [1]

Notes to Editors

• Read the Transport Select Committee’s report here: Bus Services Bill: boost to communities welcomed by MPs [2]
• View Campaign for Better Transport’s interactive map showing the scale of cuts to supported bus services across England and Wales here [3].
• Read Campaign for Better Transport’s buses blog here: The Bus Services Bill – a new era for the UK’s bus services? [4]
• Campaign for Better Transport [5] is the UK's leading authority on sustainable transport. We champion transport solutions that improve people's lives and reduce environmental damage. Our campaigns push innovative, practical policies at local and national levels. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).