Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what discussions he has had with bus companies on compensation for people with bus passes who are not travelling during the covid-19 outbreak.

The Department has been engaging with bus trade organisations and operators to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on the bus industry. These discussions, along with the support package announced on 3 April, are ensuring services continue to be provided for essential journeys.

Compensation for people with bus passes or season tickets who are not travelling is a matter for each operator. Bus operators should provide clear information and processes for those seeking compensation or refunds and I would emphasise the operator’s role in providing first class communication on this issue.