§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to develop a system of special needs transport in England and Wales; and if he will make a statement. [65055]
§ Mr. JamiesonAt the local level English authorities outside London are required to develop five-year local transport plans to tackle the transport issues faced by their communities. Our guidance on LTPs makes clear the importance of improving public transport and the vital role of voluntary and community transport in bringing benefits and better mobility for all sections of society through the provision of door-to-door and other specialised services.
Non-profit making organisations may use permits issued under section 19 of the Transport Act 1985. This enables them to run, among other things, special needs transport without the need to meet the requirements of bus operator licensing.