Alcohol ban proposed to improve bus services

An alcohol ban on buses in England was among Government proposals unveiled today to improve services throughout the country.

The proposals also included a requirement for bus operators to provide more advanced warning of changes to services.

Also in today's consultation paper were proposals to allow local authorities to set maximum ticket prices for all, or certain categories of, passengers at a level less than the existing commercial fares.

Transport minister Sadiq Khan said: "Two thirds of all public transport journeys are by bus and passengers deserve a better travelling experience. They shouldn't have to suffer from drunks or sudden changes to services.

"I have recently completed a nationwide bus tour where I saw first hand both excellence in practice and areas where services need to improve.

"The proposals we are publishing today are a significant step towards making that improvement and ensuring this vital part of our transport system continues to thrive."

Other measures in the consultation include financial penalties for operators who fail to enforce dedicated wheelchair spaces on buses.

The Government is also asking for views on how the conduct of drivers and passengers might be improved more generally and how inconsiderate or anti-social behaviour might be tackled.

A ban on the consumption of alcohol on all public transport in London was introduced by the capital's Mayor Boris Johnson in 2008.