Buses and coaches are central to the Government’s mission of kickstarting economic growth according to a keynote address to the CPT Conference by the Minister for Local Transport.
Addressing more than 150 representatives of the bus and coach industry in London today, Simon Lightwood MP pledged to reverse a long-term decline in the number of people travelling by bus and coach across Britain.
“Our priority mission is about economic growth – putting more money in peoples’ pockets, which means living standards that are visibly improved and investment from businesses to realise their potential.
“Quite simply, if growth is an end, then buses and coaches are a means. You’re responsible for millions of everyday journeys, connecting customers to education, employment and essential services – providing a lifeline, particularly for the poorest in society who catch ten times as many buses.”
Mr Lightwood noted that the number of people travelling by bus has fallen since 2010: “The cycle of decline stops now.”
He added that buses are central to decarbonising the economy: “A full double-decker bus can take over 70 cars off the road.”
And he emphasised the central role played by coaches in supporting domestic tourism: “With the coach often being the cheapest way to travel long distances, it’s your members who underpin our tourism industry – from Cornwall to Cumbria.”
The Confederation of Passenger Transport’s annual conference heard panels on the future of the coach market, on green growth and on placemaking. The Conference took place as the Government’s Bus Services Bill makes its way through parliament, and ahead of a Comprehensive Spending Review this spring at which the industry is calling for a long-term funding settlement.
Graham Vidler, Chief Executive of the CPT, said: “It’s great to hear the minister recognise the vital role played by buses and coaches in keeping Britain moving. Buses are the country’s most popular form of public transport, carrying more than 11 million people a day.
“Bus and coach operators share the same goals as the Government – to deliver frequent, reliable and affordable buses. We stand ready to workwith ministers, and local authorities, to help get Britain growing.”
Pic: CPT
