Chamber and committees

Strengthening Scotland’s Bus Network

Submitted by: Stephen Flynn, Aberdeen Deeside and North Kincardine, Scottish National Party
Date lodged: Tuesday, 03 November 2026
Motion type: Motion For Debate
Motion reference: S7M-01881
Current status: Due to be taken in the Chamber on Thursday, 05 November 2026

That the Parliament welcomes the opportunity to strengthen the availability, affordability and accessibility of Scotland's bus network by bringing the bus network back into public control through franchising and regulation across Scotland; welcomes the Scottish Government's commitment to bring legislation before Parliament to deliver this at the earliest possible opportunity; recognises the successful delivery of the £2 bus fare cap scheme in the Highlands and Islands and Strathclyde areas; welcomes that this means that bus fares are now capped at £2 across 60% of the land area of Scotland and in areas where half of the population of Scotland live; supports expansion of the fare cap to Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire from April 2027 in advance of further roll-out to the rest of Scotland; notes that this measure makes a real difference to people during a cost of living crisis, helping with the cost of everyday travel and supporting access to work, education, healthcare and leisure, and recognises that this builds on the success of the free bus schemes available to 2.4 million people, including everyone aged under 22, eligible disabled people, and over 60s.

Supported by: Tom Arthur