§ Mr. Foxasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is now able to announce the results of his review of the bus licensing system.
§ Mr. PeytonYes. The Government have concluded that substantial modifications are required. The main purpose will be to encourage the introduction of new types of service, while retaining necessary control over stage and express services. I am particularly concerned to help people in rural areas where bus services are being reduced.
I propose to exempt from road service licensing excursions and tours, works and school contract services, small vehicles, services supported by rural bus grant and those provided as a condition of consent to closure of a rural service. I shall seek power to exempt by order selected rural areas where licensing is no longer necessary, and to simplify the procedures for fares changes.
I am circulating details of the proposed changes to the bus operators' associations, local authority associations and other interested bodies.