Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of improving bus services on social isolation.

The government knows a modern transport network is vital to preventing social isolation and providing access to services. That is why the government has committed to improving bus services to ensure they meet the needs of the communities who rely on them. As announced in the King’s Speech, the government will introduce the Buses Bill to put the power over local bus services back in the hands of local leaders right across England.

In addition, the government has confirmed £955 million for the 2025 to 2026 financial year to support and improve bus services in England outside London. This includes £243 million for bus operators and £712 million allocated to local authorities across the country. Local authorities can use this funding to introduce new bus routes, make services more frequent and protect crucial bus routes for local communities.