LOCAL MP, Mel Stride, has warned that bus passengers across Devon could lose vital services if a 50 per cent fare hike goes ahead.
Under plans announced by the Labour Government, the current bus fare pricing cap of £2 will rise to £3 when it ends on December 31.
The £2 bus fare cap was introduced, and extended, by the previous Conservative Government to help millions of passengers with cheaper and more reliable travel. But since entering office, Labour have increased the cap by 50 per cent, hitting people who rely on buses to get to work and school, visit the shops, and see family or friends.
The increase is likely to be felt sharply by the most vulnerable in society and have a negative impact on both young and old passengers.
In Devon, the increase in prices could see a drop in passenger numbers, and ultimately a reduction in services.
Mel Stride, MP for Central Devon and Shadow Chancellor, said: “Labour might argue the fare increase is just a pound, but the cumulative effect here and across the country could be a disaster.
“As fares go up, it is likely passenger numbers will go down and bus companies may ultimately be forced to stop vital routes and end essential services.
“Rural communities will be hit particularly hard by this, and the impact will be felt right across the board; from young people using buses to access education, to workers and older people for whom the bus is their only source of transport.
“There is still time for the Transport Secretary to reverse this decision and I urge her to do so.”
