In his first visit to the West Country as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham reinstated a £2 fare cap on bus journeys across England, aiming to ease financial pressures on households struggling with the cost of living. This move reverses his predecessor Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to raise the cap to £3. The new fare limit will remain in place throughout 2027 and is expected to help many save money on transportation.
Burnham visited Bath and emphasized the importance of affordable public transport in supporting everyday expenses. Doug Claringbold, regional boss of First West of England, welcomed the cap and hoped it would encourage more people to use buses in the region.
Regarding income tax, Burnham stated there is currently no commitment to increase the tax-free personal allowance, which stands at £12,570. However, he indicated the government might consider this in the upcoming budget. He emphasized transparency and honesty in his communication, noting that any change would be carefully evaluated with no unfunded promises at this stage.
READ MORE: Man Injured in Assault in Midsomer Norton; Two Arrested
READ MORE: Arrested MP Dan Norris Has Not Voted Since Police Update
Burnham also addressed speculation about Cabinet changes, clarifying that many ministers from Starmer’s team remain and that his decisions aim to create a balanced team reflecting all sides of the Labour Party, not factionalism.
The £2 bus fare cap applies nationwide except in areas like London and Greater Manchester, where lower caps have existed under Burnham’s mayoral leadership. Funding for this policy will come partly from converting international climate project grants into repayable loans, a move criticized by environmental groups like Friends of the Earth. The scheme is expected to cost over £500 million, with the remainder of funds sourced from the Department for Transport’s existing bus budget.
Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden questioned the financial sustainability of Labour’s promises, highlighting concerns over potential increases in borrowing or taxes.
In parallel with these transport initiatives, Burnham continues to shape his ministerial team, with notable appointments including Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, expected to receive a peerage and a ministerial role. Other cabinet changes involve shifts in portfolios among ministers, reflecting Burnham’s efforts to consolidate his government’s direction.