MSP says bus users and drivers let down by Government failure to act on antisocial behaviour

Despite clear cross-party agreement in the Scottish Parliament, including support for a Scottish Labour debate calling for action, the Scottish Government has failed to bring forward suitable secondary legislation needed to make the policy work in practice.

Appearing at the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee last week, Agriculture and Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie was seeking approval from the committee for a Scottish Statutory Instrument that would enable this process. However the Minister did not provide the Committee with the Code of Conduct that would underpin the process, and was unable to answer questions from Committee members on how it would work.

Claire Baker MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife said: “People across Mid Scotland and Fife rely on buses every day - to get to work, school, college, medical appointments or other commitments. They should be able to do so safely, without fear of abuse, intimidation or violence.

“Bus drivers in particular are on the frontline and have been clear that antisocial behaviour can be increasingly difficult to manage. They were promised action, but the Scottish Government has failed to deliver.”

Over a year ago, the Scottish Parliament backed a Scottish Labour motion recognising the need for the removal of concessionary bus passes as a sanction for serious and repeat antisocial behaviour. The measure was widely seen as a necessary step to protect staff and passengers and restore confidence in public transport.

Claire Baker added: “There is no shortage of agreement on the problem, and no shortage of promises. What is missing is delivery. Necessary information is not being provided to Parliament and the whole process is being slowed down as a result.

“This is about protecting workers, supporting passengers and making our buses safer for everyone.”