A Change.org petition launched by Coventry South MP, Zarah Sultana, has gained over 100,000 signatures in just one week.
The petition calls on the government to retain the current £2 bus fare cap, which is due to increase to £3 in January 2025, as announced in the Autumn Budget.
Local subsidies
Following a recent question from members of the Isle of Wight Youth Council, the Isle of Wight’s ruling administration confirmed Island bus fares will go up to £3 and that no further subsidies have been accounted for.
However, Councillor Jonathan Bacon stated,
“Following the recent announcement from government regarding funding for local bus services which specifically referenced the Isle of Wight, the council is set to receive additional funding from government of around £1.8 million which can be spent on capital and revenue projects.
“Working with the bus provider, Southern Vectis, and through the bus services improvement plan arrangement which is already in place, we will be looking to improve the overall bus services Island-wide with potential enhancements to include more service routes, increased frequency along some routes, real-time information provision and consideration of further subsidies where they may be best utilised.”
Concerns over rising transport costs
Looking back at the national picture, critics around the country argue that raising the cap amounts to a tax on public transport users, potentially adding hundreds of pounds annually to the cost of commuting.
Zarah Sultana MP, who represents Coventry South, highlighted the impact of the £2 fare cap on her constituents. She stated,
“As the Member of Parliament for Coventry South, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact of the £2 fare cap on my constituents.”
She stressed its importance for those living in rural areas, where public transport options are often limited.
Climate emergency and accessibility
Ms Sultana connected the campaign to the climate crisis, saying,
“We can all see the catastrophic impact of the climate crisis around the world, and here in the UK.
“So it’s more important than ever that we make public transport easier, cheaper and more accessible.”
She also pointed to the broad support the campaign has received.
“As this petition shows, this is an issue that has broad support across the country. With 2025 approaching, we expect the signatures to grow as we move closer to the introduction of a new, higher cap.”
Disparity in bus fare systems
The petition has drawn attention to differences in fare structures across the UK. One supporter, Rainer Hinz, contrasted the situation outside London with the capital’s fare system.
“In London, the pay-as-you-go at adult rate on buses and trams is still £1.75 and even allows unlimited journeys within one hour.
“Why should bus passengers elsewhere in England now pay £3.00 for a single bus ride without change?”
Regional responses
The Department for Transport has yet to respond to the petition.
However, Labour Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has confirmed that the £2 cap will remain in place for his region through 2025.
You can find the petition at Change.org/SaveTheBusCap, with comments left by supporters here.
