§ Mr. MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what proposals he has to guarantee the reduced fares scheme for children following bus privatisation and deregulation in Greater London.
§ Mr. NorrisBus privatisation will have no effect on the availability of child fares in London because bus operators will continue to provide services for London Transport, at the fares set by London Transport.
After deregulation, fares—including those for children —will be a matter for individual operators. However, we intend to extend to London local authorities the power already available to authorities outside London to offer travel concessions for children under 16 years, and school children under 18 years.