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Bus boss calls for independent watchdog
PUBLIC transport bosses are calling for a watchdog to be set up, free from bus companies' influence.
Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority (GMPTA) chairman Cllr Roger Jones said it was vital that the group represented passengers and not operators.
Currently, Bus Users UK exists to give travellers a voice but it is funded by bus companies.
The Government wants to create a new group to champion passengers, either by extending the existing group's remit or creating a new watchdog with legal powers.
Other options include handing the role to rail group Passenger Focus or creating a entirely new organisation covering all forms of transport.
Cllr Jones said: "We believe it is essential that the new bus champion is both independent and impartial."
GMPTA has submitted its comments as part of consultation on the Local Transport Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Councillor Margaret Clare, Bolton's spokesman for GMPTA, added: "I would like to see the new body act as a voice for the travelling public rather than people who discuss issues with bus operators but do not actually use buses themselves."
12:19pm Wednesday 26th March 2008
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CommentPosted by: amosc99, Bolton on 4:16pm Wed 26 Mar 08
And as of yet Cllr Margaret Clare has not responded to my e-mail to her from a fortnight ago.
And she expects people's questions of public transport to be answered by her!!!!
Not even a holding message - get your act toghether and RESPOND, woman!!!!
Or are you above answering people's queries?
And as of yet Cllr Margaret Clare has not responded to my e-mail to her from a fortnight ago.
And she expects people's questions of public transport to be answered by her!!!!
Not even a holding message - get your act toghether and RESPOND, woman!!!!
Or are you above answering people's queries?
Posted by: Stephen Morris - English Democrats Party, Unsworth Bury on 6:52pm Wed 26 Mar 08
I find Cllr Roger Jones's comments that it was vital that the group represented passengers and not operators totaly 2 faced. He was elected to represent his ward but the vast majority of people do not want the Congestion Charge, but what does he do,still tries to push it through against thier wishes. He should be voted out this May and someone who truly speaks for the people should now be elected.
I find Cllr Roger Jones's comments that it was vital that the group represented passengers and not operators totaly 2 faced. He was elected to represent his ward but the vast majority of people do not want the Congestion Charge, but what does he do,still tries to push it through against thier wishes. He should be voted out this May and someone who truly speaks for the people should now be elected.
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