Embattled transport secretary’s Budget victory prevented bus fare rises of up to 650%

In the United Kingdom, transport secretary Louise Haigh successfully negotiated with the Treasury to maintain a cap on bus fares, preventing potential hikes of up to 650%. Despite emerging controversy over her role in recent government decisions, particularly the P&O workers' rights issue, Haigh's deal ensures the maximum bus fare will remain at £3 until the end of 2025. This victory was crucial as funding for the previous cap of £2 was originally set to expire at the end of this year, posing a risk of significant fare increases, particularly in rural areas. Haigh's allies have described the negotiations as intensely challenging, emphasizing the potential for drastic fare rises that would have severely impacted less profitable routes. A report indicated that some fares could have soared from £2 to £15 without intervention. Furthermore, while the new cap will remain for only one year, plans are in place to reform bus services by allowing route takeovers and enhancing local authority control to improve reliability and affordability. The Department for Transport has pledged £151 million to sustain the £3 cap and an additional £925 million to support improvements in local bus services. Haigh expressed a commitment to transform bus services by reversing past deregulation failures and empowering communities to manage their transport needs effectively.