Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed that free bus tickets will be extended to more passengers, building on the existing £3 bus fare cap. The initiative, named the Great British Summer Savings scheme, aims to alleviate the cost of living pressures on families.
Free Travel for Children
Every child aged five to 15 in England will be able to travel free on participating local buses throughout August. The scheme offers unlimited journeys with no registration required, at no cost to families. The government is committing over £100 million to fund the free fares and continue supporting bus services.
Chancellor's Statement
Ms Reeves announced the proposals in the Commons on Thursday, May 21. She stated: "My number one priority is protecting households from rising costs. This summer I want every family to be able to enjoy themselves, that's why we're launching the Great British Summer Savings Scheme, and why we're helping kids with free bus travel throughout August."
She added: "As the war in Iran pushes prices up at home, my economic plan is the right one. I will continue to make the right choices, to protect households and businesses, and build a stronger and more secure Britain."
Transport Secretary's Comments
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "Free bus travel for every child in August means parents can plan days out, visit loved ones and make the most of the holidays without the added financial pressure."
She highlighted the success of similar schemes: "We've already seen what's possible - in the West of England, the Mayor's free travel scheme is making a real difference, particularly for young people in the most deprived communities."
Alexander concluded: "This builds on the work we're already doing to make buses better for everyone - from the £3 bus fare cap and the landmark Bus Services Act, to our £3 billion investment in local services and frozen rail fares for the first time in 30 years. We're making sure public transport works for people, not against them."
