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Dept for Transport

Answer

Mr. Don Foster: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what measures have been taken to encourage (a) local authorities and (b) bus companies to simplify fare structures on buses to a flat-rate for all inner-city single journeys; and if he will make a statement; [133988] (2) if he will list the (a) local authorities and (b) bus companies that have simplified their fare structure on buses to a flat-rate for all inner-city single journeys, listing (i) the number of passengers carried (A) before and (B) after implementation and (ii) the number of services run; and if he will make a statement. [133989] Mr. McNulty: The setting of bus fares in a deregulated market is a matter of commercial decision for bus operators. The appropriateness of a flat-rate fare system (with concessions for those statutorily entitled to them) will depend on the size of the urban area concerned and on travel patterns within it. Many operators are simplifying their fare structures in the light of evidence that this is what customers prefer. The Department's booklet, "Protecting Bus and Coach Crews", advises that simplifying fare structures can reduce the scope for disputes between passengers and drivers. This booklet is currently being revised by the Safer Travel on Buses and Coaches Panel (STOP). In April 2002, the Department published "Get on Board: an Agenda for Improving Personal Security in Bus Travel", including advice to operators and local authorities on using fare structures to reduce the scope for conflict between drivers and passengers. The Government do not collect data on flat-rate fare schemes.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

412 c136W;412 c144W; 133988;133989

Session

2002-03

Subjects

Bus services Fares Inner city areas Passengers Standards

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk