HC Deb 11 November 1969 vol 791 c172
40. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Transport if he will refer to the National Board for Prices and Incomes the proposed increases in bus fares in outer London; and why he has indicated his intention of approving these increases without such reference.

Mr. Bob Brown

No, Sir. These limited increases did not in the Government's view justify a reference to the National Board for Prices and Incomes. My right hon. Friend's approval of these increases is to facilitate the very necessary reorganisation of public transport in London.

Mr. Driberg

Although these increases are unwelcome everywhere, can my hon. Friend tell me why is it that people in outer London are considered better able to put up with them than people in other areas?

Mr. Brown

This is not an across-the-board increase. I know that there is concern regarding the differential in the increases, but the broad answer is that it costs more to provide transport in the central area than in the outer areas.

Mr. Michael Heseltine

Are these increases sufficient to eliminate the proposed estimated loss on the buses to be transferred to the National Bus Company as from 1st January, 1970?

Mr. Brown

I understand that these increases will make the services viable.