§ 45. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Minister of Transport if she is aware of a proposal to increase bus fares in the Weymouth and Portland areas; and if she will refer the proposal to the National Board for Prices and Incomes.
§ Mr. John MorrisBus fares are controlled by the independent Traffic Commissioners in accordance with their duties under the Road Traffic Act 1960 and the Prices and Incomes Act, 1966. The 273W Western Area Commissioners will shortly consider applications for fares increases from the Western and Southern National bus companies. Local authorities have rights of appeal to my right hon. Friend if they are not satisfied with the Commissioners' decisions. These statutory procedures ensure that the national interest is taken into account and reference to the National Board for Prices and Incomes would not be appropriate.