The Net Zero, Energy & Transport Committee scrutinised the National Bus Travel Concession Schemes (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Order 2026.

The Committee conducted a targeted call for views, before formally considering the instrument on 20 January 2026.

Background

The National Concessionary Travel Schemes (NCTS) provide free bus travel across Scotland to three principal groups: young people aged 5–21, adults aged 60 and over, and individuals with qualifying disabilities.

In recent years, concerns have been raised about passenger safety and levels of anti-social behaviour on public transport, particularly on bus services. In response to these concerns, the Scottish Government decided to introduce a code of conduct for all NCTS users, with some accompanying measures. 

Purpose of the Instrument

The Order would allow Scottish Ministers to suspend or withdraw access to concessionary bus travel, for anyone who breaches standards set out in the code of conduct. 

The regulations set out protections for how decisions are made, including that the individual must be given notice, and it must be made clear to them why this action is being taken. The individual must also have an opportunity to present their views before a decision is made. These steps are to ensure a fair, proportionate and transparent process which allows sufficient notice for affected individuals to make alternative travel arrangements during any period of suspension. 

The instrument will not stop anyone from using bus services by paying the applicable fare during a suspension period. Bus operators can also still refuse service to anyone who breaks their existing conditions of carriage. 

Find out more information about the instrument

Committee scrutiny 

The Committee decided to conduct a short, targeted call for views before formally considering the instrument. See correspondence below for responses.  

The Committee then considered the instrument on 20 January 2026. After the Committee had taken evidence, the Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity determined not to move the instrument, which was later withdrawn. 

20 January meeting 

A new instrument was then lodged on 28 January. This was practically identical to the prior instrument but this time a draft code of conduct was published alongside it. (The draft code is available in the Minister’s letter of 28 January, below.)  

Find out more information about the instrument 

The Committee considered the re-laid instrument, and the accompanying draft code, on 17 February 2026. The Committee supported the instrument by 6 votes to none, with one abstention. 

17 February meeting 

Read the Committee’s report on the instrument 

The Parliament agreed to the instrument on 11 March 2026.