Free Bus Travel for Young People

The Green Party is calling for people under 22 to be able to travel by bus for free in England. Party leader Zack Polanski said such a proposal could help young people who are excluded from work and education due to the cost of living.

Current Situation

Since 2022, people aged five to 22 have had free bus journeys in Scotland, with Polanski arguing the scheme should be extended to England. Under 18s can already ride buses for free in London, and there are further discounts for some aged 25 and under. Other bus companies across England also offer discounts for young people.

Benefits of Free Bus Travel

The Green Party said the universal bus pass for young people would be self-financing because it would stimulate the economy. “Young people are increasingly excluded from employment and education by the cost of living crisis, which often hits the youngest hardest,” Polanski said. Free bus rides for youth is part of improving the lives of younger people and showing what a richer, greener country looks like when we invest in people and don’t hand our wealth over to the super-rich and corporations.

Implementation

Polanski said Green Party councilors would push for the universal bus system in their areas if elected in local elections in May. “The Green councilors elected in May will use their influence to implement this program in their areas and we will apply political pressure at national level to ensure that a program recommended by the Transport Select Committee last year is put into action,” he said.

Economic Benefits

The Greens said research found that 2.2 million commuters rely on buses to get to work, generating a total income of £72 billion each year. Free bus rides for young people are part of their mission to bring hope back to normal. By providing free bus travel, the Green Party aims to support young people and stimulate the economy.