McInnes fights public transport cuts

2.36.00pm GMT Thu 31st Jan 2008

Speaking in a debate in the Scottish Parliament, Liberal Democrat Transport spokesperson Alison McInnes MSP has called on the Scottish Government to end the uncertainty and develop Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) in Scotland.

Mrs McInnes also welcomed Conservative support for her campaign to overturn Budget cuts to the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG).

Commenting, Mrs McInnes said:

"Ministers profess to be in favour of public transport, but the draft Budget tells a different story. The SNP has chosen to make cuts to the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) and concessionary fares and to jeopardise Demand Responsive Transport.

"I have been campaigning in the Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee for many months now to overturn cuts to the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG). I welcome Tory support for my campaign.

"I have today lodged an amendment calling on the Scottish Government to end the uncertainty and develop DRT in Scotland through increased funding for local schemes. This government is playing politics with this lifeline service for rural areas and elderly and disabled passengers.

"For a truly integrated public transport system we need to support Demand Responsive Transport and fight these proposed cuts."