FIRST BUS PRICE INCREASES IN GLASGOW AND THE WEST OF SCOTLAND

That this House condemns First Bus Glasgow's decision to increase single adult tickets on routes by more than 15 per cent; notes with concern the decision taken by First Glasgow to scrap unaccompanied child concession tickets, increase fares for under-16s by 40 per cent; further notes that unemployed passengers have also been hit with a 10 per cent hike in fares; notes that these price rises coincide with the Government's outrageous plans to close jobcentres across Glasgow that are due to take effect this week; believes that buses are vital in accessing employment, education and reducing our carbon footprint; is further concerned that the price rises reduce access to vital public services and makes the daily commute increasingly unaffordable; recognises the Scottish Government's consultation on a new Bill that proposes that local transport authorities be given the power to take buses into public ownership and operate highly regulated franchises; and calls on First Glasgow to reverse its decision and deliver a service that better meets the needs of the residents of Glasgow and the West of Scotland.