Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government (1) how many Mayoral Combined Authorities have introduced bus franchising, and (2) how many other authorities have applied to the Secretary of State for Transport for the powers to introduce bus franchising, since the introduction of the Bus Services Act 2017.

Under the Bus Services Act 2017, mayoral combined authorities (MCAs) have powers to implement a franchising scheme without further involvement from Government.

Transport for Greater Manchester concluded a consultation exercise on their proposals to franchise bus services in Manchester on 8 January. A decision is expected later this year.

Under the Bus Services Act 2017, only MCAs have automatic access to franchising powers. Other types of local transport authority must seek permission from the Secretary of State for Transport. None have yet done so.