LOCAL BUS SERVICES

Early day motion 1986, tabled 23 June 2011 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 49 members.

That this House recognises that two thirds of public transport journeys are made by bus; believes that buses play a vital role in society, linking people to work, education, shops and services, keeping the elderly self-sufficient, supporting local economies and offering an immediate lower carbon alternative to car use; notes that hundreds of local authority supported bus services deemed socially necessary are being withdrawn; is concerned that the decision to reduce the Bus Service Operators Grant by 20 per cent. from 2012 will further damage the bus network and undermine Government objectives to tackle unemployment and promote equal opportunities and social mobility, particularly in rural areas; and calls on the Government to ensure buses receive the funding and support that they need to play their part in keeping the country mobile and on the road to recovery.

Signatures by party: Labour 30, Liberal Democrat 12, DUP 4, Conservative 1, Green 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.