Better Buses briefing for MSPs

Summary  

• 40 years of deregulation have failed. October 2026 marks four decades since bus deregulation, leaving Scotland with a fragmented, declining and increasingly inaccessible network, despite substantial public funding. 

• We need fundamental reform, not just cheaper fares. Fare caps are urgently needed as an interim measure, but they do not fix a system that is financially, socially and environmentally unsustainable. 

• Buses should be an essential public service. Public ownership can put communities, passengers and workers, rather than commercial interests, at the heart of the network in a country where on average a quarter of people do not have access to a car or van 

• Better buses can deliver across government priorities. A reliable, affordable network can help tackle the cost-of-living and climate crises, reduce inequality, improve public health, and support access to education, employment and economic opportunity while rationalising public spending 

• The powers already exist — but national support is needed. Local Transport Authorities can establish publicly owned services and reform the bus market, but they lack the guidance and financial support needed to use these powers  

• The Scottish Government must enable action now. This parliament must publish clear guidance and start-up funding for public ownership, while supporting market reform through franchising in tandem