A number of constituents have contacted me about audio visual information on buses.

A wide range of disabled passengers will benefit greatly from the implementation of audio-visual equipment on buses. It can provide access to education, employment, and other services, whether they are familiar or not with the route they are travelling.

The Bus Services Act 2017 set out that accessible information powers require all bus operators who operate local services in the UK had to provide audio-visual route and next-stop announcements on board buses. This is in partnership with the Government commitment to the Inclusive Transport Strategy, investing £2 million towards ensuring audio visual equipment is installed on buses.

I understand concerns about the pace that audio-visual announcements on buses have been implemented. Following the 2021 National Bus Strategy the Department committed to introducing Accessible Information Regulations, and they are finalising the response to a consultation triggered by the Bus Services Act, ahead of making the Regulations later in 2023. Subject to Parliamentary approval.

I will follow the developments to these regulations and thank you again for everyone who contacted me.