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Proceeding contribution from David Howarth (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Commons on Monday, 27 October 2008. It occurred during Debate on bill on Local Transport Bill [Lords].

Local Transport Bill [Lords]

What has happened in Cambridge is often cited as an example of the success of partnerships. Nevertheless, the increase in bus patronage in Cambridge had rather more to do with the geography of an historic town, which allowed the county council more scope in restricting car traffic, and with the city council, unusually for a district council, offering a subsidy for buses. People in Cambridge would not reject the option of a quality contract, as the hon. Gentleman seems to be doing, which would have the additional benefit of allowing them to control fares. If a bus company has a local monopoly, the way it makes money is by restricting services and increasing fares.

Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
481 c591 
Session
2007-08
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Staff Conditions of employment Contracts Devolved matters Appeals Councillors Bus services Fares Greater London Exemptions Humber bridge Local government Motor vehicles Protection Membership Public appointments Workplace pensions Public transport Railways Passengers Passenger transport executives Pension rights Standards Tribunals Wales Roads Transport Scotland Testing Road works Tolls Trams Traffic Commissioners Local transport plans Rail Passengers Council Transport Tribunal Statutory instruments
Legislation
Local Transport Bill (HL) 2007-08
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk