The debate about the future of the Student Rider bus pass is still going on at County Hall.
The councillors have just voted to continue the debate on until 10pm, past the usual 9pm limit.
Council Leader, Cll Pugh, has amended the motion to say ‘we’ will talk to Southern Vectis, but if no alternative is found by 1 Sept, the Student Rider will end on that date.
Cllr Jonathan Bacon has recently proposed an amendment the scope of the debate and to remove the closure date for the scheme.
UPDATE: 21:23 Cllr Bacon’s amendment has been defeated 12 to 20 votes, with the Conservatives voting it down.
UPDATE 21:32: Cllr Stuart Dyer gave a speech where he reminded the ruling Conservatives group that the people who want Student Rider passes will be voters in 3 years time.
UPDATE 22:20:The recommendation from the cabinet was voted through with Cllr Pugh’s amendments.
Student protest earlier
Up to 100 students protested outside County Hall this afternoon, making the point to those inside that they didn’t want to lose the Student Rider. They received much protest from the passing motorists.
Further updates on the debate when we get them.
