Step closer on measures to tackle anti-social behaviour on buses
Moves to tackle anti-social behaviour on buses are progressing as MSPs voted to give new powers to the Scottish Government to withdraw or suspend free travel to those breaking the rules.
It means the government will be able to take action against those using concessionary travel schemes who break the forthcoming code of conduct.
The new powers will apply to everyone with a bus pass for free travel, including those age five to 21, over 60s and those with a qualifying disability.
The move comes after growing concerns about anti-social behaviour from young people on buses and reports from trade unions that abuse on buses is rising.
The measures agreed by MSPs are part of a wider approach to encourage positive behaviour on Scotland’s bus network.
Transport Scotland said it is continuing to work with partners to develop the detailed processes for suspending or withdrawing free bus travel, and publish the final Code of Conduct, expected later in the year.
Jim Fairlie, Minister for Connectivity, said: “We committed in our most recent Programme for Government to suspending or withdrawing free bus travel from anyone who does not act responsibly, and this SSI is a key step in delivering that.
“It creates the enabling power for the policy and supports ongoing work with partners to finalise the administrative processes.
"The policy will apply across all National Concessionary Travel Schemes and will be underpinned by a Code of Conduct setting clear expectations for respectful behaviour, focusing on actions that harm, threaten, or significantly disrupt others.
“Implementation will be phased to ensure a fair and robust system, taking account of business impacts, child wellbeing, poverty considerations, and the needs of older and disabled people.
"Our aim is to make the bus network safer by deterring unacceptable behaviour and, where necessary, removing the privilege of free travel. Criminal behaviour will remain a matter for the police and justice system, but this policy forms part of wider efforts to improve community safety.
“I’m clear that everyone should be able get to where they need to go without fear of abuse.
"We are working hard to ensure that all bus passengers can travel safely and confidently on our bus network. The progress made in the Scottish Parliament will help support that in the future.”