Skip to main content

Written question asked by Kerry McCarthy (Labour) on Thursday, 19 October 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 October 2023 (named day). It was answered by Richard Holden (Conservative) on Thursday, 26 October 2023 on behalf of the Department for Transport.


Bus Services: Franchises

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of franchising more local bus services.

Answer

The Government will support any Local Transport Authority wishing to franchise their bus services.

The Bus Services Act 2017 provides automatic access to franchising powers to Mayoral Combined Authorities in England.

Other authorities can request those powers from the Secretary of State but need to demonstrate that they have the capability and resources to deliver franchising, and that franchising is the best option to deliver improvements for passengers.

The Department is currently revising the Bus Services Act 2017 Franchising Scheme Guidance, published in November 2017, to provide updated and detailed advice on the franchising process.

Regarding the current action on Go North East, I hope both sides can come to a mutually acceptable agreement that delivers for passengers.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
906748
Session
2022-23
Question not reached
Yes
Subjects
Bus services Franchises
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk