The Labour government's new £2 bus fare cap, set to take effect from January 2027 under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, has come under fire from industry experts. Dan Briggs, CEO of Motorfinity, a leading vehicle provider for disabled and frontline workers, issued a stark warning about the policy's impact on essential workers who rely on private motoring.
Criticism from Motorfinity CEO
Briggs argued that while the fare cap aims to ease the cost of living, it overlooks millions of essential workers who cannot use public transport due to unsociable shift patterns. 'From Prison Service staff averaging 48-minute commutes to Armed Forces personnel facing nearly an hour on the road, frontline workers on unsociable shift patterns simply can't hop on a £2 bus,' he said. He urged transport policy to reflect the reality of shift workers, not just city-centre commuters.
Funding and Controversy
The government insists the scheme is fully funded, costing over £500 million, with £400 million coming from replacing grants for international climate projects with loans. Burnham stated the fare is supported by re-prioritising the budget. However, this approach drew criticism from ActionAid UK, which warned that diverting money from overseas climate initiatives risks 'penalising those most impacted by a climate crisis they did not create.'
Mixed Public Reactions
Not all feedback has been negative. Maisie from Coventry told BBC's 5 Live that the cap would encourage 'young people to go outside and make friends... have fun.' Conversely, Seb Pelisse, who lives in Chertty but commutes to London, called the policy 'a little delusional to think this will help most people.' He urged the government to reduce train fares instead, describing his commute as 'horrendously expensive.'
Burnham's Defence
Burnham defended the policy, stating, 'Good, affordable transport links are an essential. No one should be priced out of those and left behind.' He emphasised that cheaper transport is achievable, having previously implemented a £2 cap in his former role as Mayor of Greater Manchester. 'I will build a country for everyone, everywhere. That means more connected communities, better access to opportunities, and a lighter load on people's lives,' he concluded.
