Overview

This bill aims to guarantee minimum levels of public transport service in rural areas of England and Wales. It mandates the government to set these minimum standards, focusing on access to essential services like employment, education, and healthcare, and specifying minimum service frequency, particularly during peak hours.

Description

The Public Transport (Rural Areas) Bill requires the Secretary of State to establish minimum service levels for public transport in rural England through regulations. These regulations must include:

• Accessibility Standards: Guaranteeing access to employment sites, education sites, and local health services.
• Service Frequency Standards: Mandating at least hourly services during defined peak times.

Crucially, any regulations created under this bill require approval from both Houses of Parliament before they can be implemented. The bill applies to England and Wales and will come into effect immediately upon being passed.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't specify the exact amount of government spending. The financial implications will depend on the specific minimum service levels set by the regulations and the subsequent funding required to meet those standards. Further analysis is needed to determine the overall cost.

Groups Affected

This bill will directly affect:

• Rural Residents: Potentially improved access to essential services and employment opportunities.
• Public Transport Providers: May require increased services and potentially increased costs, requiring government funding.
• Government: Responsible for setting regulations and potentially funding the increased service levels.
• Taxpayers: May see increased taxation to fund the improved public transport services.

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