For immediate release

ASHTON and Failsworth MP Angela Rayner has backed calls for a national bus strategy.

She one of a group of MPs, many of whom attended an event hosted by Campaign for Better Transport bidding to increase pressure on the government to introduce a plan to support local buses, that would cut air pollution, tackle loneliness and drive economic growth.

Ms Rayner said: “Buses are vital to so many people in Ashton, Droylsden and Failsworth, connecting them to work and college, shops and services, friends and family.

"They have great potential to reduce congestion on our roads and clean up our air, as well as helping us meet our greenhouse gas emissions targets. But to fully realise this potential we need a National Bus Strategy, backed by central Government support, giving operators and local authorities the long-term reassurance they need to grow and develop services.”

Darren Shirley, chief executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Buses are the backbone of our public transport network and communities across the country rely on them. They help communities to thrive socially and economically and are key to tackling air pollution and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“We are calling on the government to introduce a national bus strategy that will make clear how passenger numbers can be increased and services supported and developed. We’ve seen that MPs up and down the country agree on the need for it. We welcome their support for this issue which is important to so many people.”