Watchdog responds to changed travel advice

17 July 2020

Today the Prime Minister announced that people in England can use public transport for any reason, even where they have an alternative option.

Anthony Smith, chief executive of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“This is good news for people who want to catch a bus, train or tram in England. The message for England is clear: you can now use public transport, but you must still wear a face covering unless exempt, follow the rules on social distancing and avoid the busiest times if you can.

“As the economy reopens and people start thinking about travelling again, it is important to be clear that you can now use public transport even if you have an alternative. However, big hurdles remain before there is a mass return to office working, as our research shows: people have got used to working from home, still have concerns about safety and the price might still put them off.”