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

The Committee is conducting 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 is;

• introducing a code of conduct for all NCTS users
• preparing resources that show what responsible behaviour looks like and
• considering additional visible safety measures.

Purpose of the Instrument

The National Bus Travel Concession Schemes (Miscellaneous Amendment) (Scotland) Order 2026 would allow Scottish Ministers to suspend or withdraw access to concessionary bus travel, for anyone who breaches the 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