Today at First Minister’s Questions, local MSP for Edinburgh and the Lothian region, Sue Webber demanded a “crackdown” on antisocial behaviour onboard Lothian Buses.
This follows remarks made earlier this week by the Managing Director of Lothian Buses, Sarah Boyd, at the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee, who drew a clear link between the increase in antisocial behaviour on Lothian buses and the SNP’s introduction of free bus travel for under-22s.
Sue Webber MSP called out John Swinney for his failure to tackle the anti-social behaviour “crisis” onboard buses in Edinburgh and the Lothians.
She stated that John Swinney is “refusing to face reality” and his “warm words” just won’t cut it when it comes to tackling this issue.
Sue Webber believes that “enough is enough” and is calling for immediate action to remove free bus passes from the disruptive minority of young people who are ruining journeys across Edinburgh and the Lothian region.
Scottish Conservative MSP for the Lothian region Sue Webber said:
“These warm words from the First Minister just won’t cut it.”
“The SNP’s under-22 free bus travel scheme has fuelled a surge in antisocial behaviour on Lothian buses, but John Swinney refuses to face reality.”
“I have spoken with countless constituents who are deeply concerned at the rise in this kind of behaviour.”
“Local residents are being actively discouraged from using public transport due to antisocial behaviour. It’s unacceptable that anyone should have to fear using a local bus because of the actions of the disruptive minority.”
“Enough is enough. John Swinney needs to clearly set out how free passes will be removed from the minority of young people who are ruining journeys for everyone else. Taxpayers should not have to burden the costs of travel for those who abuse their privileges.”
