ITS UK welcomes Transport Committee inquiry into buses, DRT and smart ticketing
The Transport Select Committee has launched a new inquiry into the bus sector, including on-demand bus services and smart ticketing.
Responding to the announcement, Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of Intelligent Transport Systems UK, said: “ITS UK members will strongly welcome the Committee’s new inquiry into buses and the role that innovations like demand responsive transport (DRT) and smart ticketing can play.
“In ITS UK’s Future of Transport Manifesto, we set out how DRT offers opportunities to provide communities around the country, and particularly those in rural areas, with better connectivity. However, if we are to make full use of DRT services, the Government should ensure it is placed on its own regulatory footing, including allowing smaller, more cost-efficient vehicles to be used without being charged VAT. Similarly, in ITS UK’s Manifesto we highlight the need for a renewed focus on smart ticketing, which can create more seamless journeys for those using our bus network and support the Government’s vision of an integrated transport network.
“We look forward to working with the Committee to make the case for the role transport technology can play in supporting the UK’s bus system.”
Note to Editors
- The Transport Select Committee inquiry information can be found here. The press release can be found below.
- The ITS UK ‘Manifesto for the Future of Transport’ can be found here.
- In July, ITS UK published the discussion of a roundtable on the procurement barriers to smart ticketing. This can be found here.
- About ITS UK: Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) is the voice of the transport technology industry. ITS UK provides a national platform to support the roll out of technology for a cleaner, safer and more effective transport network, both at home and abroad. We support our 175 members – from both the private and public sector, and covering all sizes and disciplines – through advocacy to policy makers, connecting people and organisations, promoting the industry overseas and supporting innovation across the intelligent transport ecosystem. www.its-uk.org