Stockport Labour’s Cllr Kate Butler has welcomed the national Labour Party’s pledge to make new funding available to reverse Tory cuts which have affected 3000 bus routes.

Labour announced the move last week, with plans to provide £1.3bn per year to reverse cuts which have affected around 3000 bus routes since 2010, and to fund the expansion of new bus services.

This policy complements Labour’s plans to put communities in control of local services by regulating and bringing into public ownership local services, and introducing free bus fares for young people.

Stockport Labour’s Cllr Kate Butler commented:

“As a public transport user myself, this is a really welcome policy announcement. National investment in public transport is badly needed to help people access jobs, skills and opportunities.

“Decent public transport is also vital for many who rely upon these services particularly the elderly, the vulnerable, and those of lesser means.

“Increasing bus use will also combat air pollution and climate change impacts, address inequalities and support local economies. That funding for public transport has been reduced to this extent at a time where environmental concerns are so pressing is a national scandal.

“I am pleased to see Labour taking a lead on this issue.”

The announcement was made during a visit of Jeremy Corbyn MP, Leader of the Labour Party, and Andy McDonald MP, Shadow Transport Secretary to Nottingham where the Labour council still runs its own buses including a fleet of eco buses.

 

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For further information on this story see https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-48044016