MP Warns Over Threat to School Buses

4.47.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 17th Aug 2004

A draft school transport Bill due to be considered when Parliament returns next month could mean charges for school buses. This is a particular problem with special schools and Vincent Cable MP has taken the issue up with the Secretary of State on behalf of Clarendon School which is worried about the effect of the proposed legislation.

Vincent Cable said "the new legislation is designed to replace the rather antiquated rules dating from 1944 and to help councils tackle the problem of school congestion.

"But there is a danger that in trying to provide greater flexibility to local councils, the Bill will also allow councils to bring in charges for groups like pupils with special needs who currently enjoy free transport.

"Parents of Children at special schools have problems enough without expensive charges being introduced."