Funding announced for bus services

The government has announced £155 million to continue to cap bus fares at £2 and to maintain bus services.

£80 million will be spent "to protect vital bus services people rely on for work, education, medical appointments and shopping" from 1 April to 30 June.

£75 million will be used to ensure that bus operators outside London can continue to cap bus fares outside of London at £2 until the end of June.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak said: "I want to make bus travel affordable for all, that’s why we’re continuing to cap fares at £2 and protecting local routes, ensuring we have a modern and efficient network that’s accessible for everyone.

"Getting more people onto reliable and affordable buses will strengthen communities and help grow the economy – connecting people to jobs, driving pensioners to see friends and family, and helping people attend medical appointments or access education.

"I’m determined to ensure that no matter where you live, you have the same opportunities to get around easily and can feel pride in your local area – which is why protecting our local bus services is so important."

Transport secretary Mark Harper said: "Travelling by bus remains the most popular option for commuters and families across the country, but the sector is still trying to recover after the end of the pandemic.

"We’re providing £155 million to help passengers save money on fares, get more people on the bus and protect vital bus routes – helping with the cost of living and enabling people to get where they need to in an affordable and convenient way."