§ Mr. PoundTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to continue the rural bus subsidy grant beyond 2000–01. [112405]
§ Mr. HillThe Rural Bus Subsidy Grant, which was first introduced in 1998–99, has been of significant benefit to people in rural areas. In its first year it provided for over 1,800 new or improved rural services. I am therefore very pleased to announce our decision to continue the grant for English local authorities for a further three years beyond the initial period which ends in March 2001. The grant will be continued at least at its current level.