Today I spoke in the Report Stage of the Bus Services [No.2] Bill.

In the North East, bus passenger journeys have fallen by over a third since 2010, that’s 76 million fewer journeys in 2024 than in 2010. This decline means missed shifts, isolation, and communities cut off from opportunity.

That’s why I put forward amendments to make sure bus reform includes:

✅ A National Bus Forum to share best practice and improve services
✅ Proper engagement with bus workers through trade union forums
✅ Stronger local accountability

And I also spoke in support of NC45, to guarantee minimum night-time bus services so key workers can get home safely.

We need a bus system that is reliable, safe and fair for passengers and the workforce who keep services running. This Bill is our chance to get it right, but only if the Government listens.