Recently, the Government dealt a harsh blow to public transport users. The budget included a 50% increase in the fare cap for bus trips outside London, a rise that may put people off using buses or make it an unaffordable option. Rail fares have been raised above inflation, and the cost of railcards for families, young people, veterans, and seniors increased. In contrast, fuel duty for drivers was frozen for the 15th year, and the 5p-per-litre cut was kept.
This approach creates unfair outcomes. The fuel duty freeze and 5p cut, which cost the Government £4.2 billion in lost revenue, mostly benefit wealthier households, who drive more and often have larger cars. Keeping the 5p cut, introduced as a temporary measure two years ago, is a missed chance to support sustainable transport.
Environmentally, the decision to support car use over public transport weakens the Government’s commitment to sustainable travel. To fight climate change, reduce pollution, and ease congestion, public transport has to be an easy, affordable choice. But by underfunding buses—our most-used public transport—the Government has missed a critical chance to support a more sustainable way to travel.
We urge a rethink of transport funding priorities. By focusing on sustainable public transport and reducing support for high-emission choices, we can create a cleaner, more connected, and fairer future.
Sign our petition and help us push for investment in a better, greener transport system.
Urgent Action Needed To Improve Our Buses
