Question reference: S5W-32514
- Asked by: Bill Kidd, MSP for Glasgow Anniesland, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 13 October 2020
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Current status: Initiated by the Scottish Government. Answered by Michael Matheson on 14 October 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether COVID-19 funding for bus operators will be extended beyond 8 November 2020.
Answer
Today I am announcing up to £52.6 million in further funding to support bus operators with maintaining bus services between 9 November and 17 January. This is in addition to the £109.7 million in funding that the Scottish Government has been providing since 22 June to support bus services. This funding will cover the expected loss of fare revenue due to physical distancing requirements and reduced carrying capacity.
Bus travel typically accounts for almost three quarters of public transport journeys, so this funding is vital in keeping Scotland moving and keeping passengers safe by enabling physical distancing to be maintained on buses.