Following the focus at COP26 on transport issues and climate change, Martin Whitfield MSP has backed calls from anti-poverty campaigners for free bus travel to be extended to young people and those on low incomes.

The Poverty Alliance’s Everyone Aboard campaign aims to extend free bus travel to those with a Universal Credit entitlement and other low-income benefits, and to all young people under 25.

Campaigners say addressing the unaffordability of public transport for many in Scotland is a vital part of building an environmentally sustainable society, ensuring everyone’s human rights can be realised, and of combatting poverty and inequality.

Commenting on his support for the campaign, Martin Whitfield MSP said: 

“Affordable bus services are essential for people on low incomes to realise their human rights, especially in light of the significant financial pressures caused by Covid-19.

“But services remain unaffordable or inaccessible for far too communities, especially those in more rural areas. This isn’t right and has the greatest impact on young people and those on low incomes.

“Addressing these geographical inequalities starts with extending free bus travel to those who need it, which is why I’m backing The Poverty Alliance’s Everyone Aboard campaign.”

Further details about the campaign can be found at www.povertyalliance.org/campaigns/everyone-aboard-campaign