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Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 28 August 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Simon Lightwood (Labour) on Monday, 7 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.


Community Transport: West Dorset

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what assessment her Department has made of the potential impact of concessionary bus pass reimbursement rates on the viability of community transport services in West Dorset.

Answer

The Government recognises the important role that community transport services play in providing access to local services and opportunities, particularly in rural areas, including West Dorset.

The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) applies on eligible local bus services as defined in concessionary travel legislation. Certain community transport services may be eligible for the scheme where they meet the relevant statutory criteria. Under the ENCTS, operators are reimbursed by Travel Concession Authorities on a ‘no better, no worse off’ basis for concessionary travel, so that operators should be left financially neutral as a result of carrying concessionary pass holders.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
25117
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Bus services Concessions Community transport West Dorset
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk