Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, with reference to the Bus Back Better strategy, published in March 2021, what steps local authorities are expected to take in consulting bus service users and user groups; and what effect a lack of such consultations by local authorities will have ​on funding applications.

It is mandatory that Bus Service Improvement Plans (BSIPs) seek and report the views of passengers and third parties, including local transport users’ groups, on the merits and demerits of bus services in their area. Further detailed guidance on the funding allocation process will be published in due course.