Claire Baker MSP attended Unite the union’s campaign to improve and protect local bus services ahead of this week’s budget announcement. The event took place in the Scottish Parliament, with a lobbying of Parliament at the front entrance, followed by a well-attended meeting in a Committee Room

The Unite lobby highlighted the impact of SNP’s previous decision to cut Bus Service Operator’s Grant by 17% which has resulted in higher bus fares and the withdrawal of services. The cut to the Bus Service Operator’s Grant, during the height of a recession, has also led to the loss of jobs in the industry.

Scottish Labour had previously led a debate in the Scottish Parliament on the issue.

Claire Baker said:

“It is the local communities across Fife and the whole of Scotland that are having to pay the price of the cut administered by the SNP Government. Fares are rising whilst the numbers of services are being reduced so people are paying more but getting less and that simply is not fair.

“With regards to public transport bus travel has long been the poor relation, that is why, ahead of the Scottish Government’s budget, it is important that the Scottish Government understand that any further cuts would adversely hit local communities and bus services.

“Buses can be a lifeline for many in Fife, particularly for people on a lower income and those that can’t afford to own a car. The Scottish Government are punishing those that rely on the bus to ensure they can get their weekly shop or to make their hospital appointment.

“I have recently had complaints from locals in Kirkcaldy who struggle to get into the town centre. Lack of bus services mean it is now easier for them to drive to retail parks on the outskirts or just simply stay at home. This has a knock on effect on local businesses in Fife as footfall in the town centre suffers.

“Also with 63% of all car trips being less than 5 miles (with 80% of all car trips being less than 10 miles) in length, we should be encouraging people out of their cars and onto public transport. If this government is serious about having a sustainable transport system and meeting its climate change targets then it has to prove it with actions not just words.”

Claire supporting Unite’s campaign