All bus travel should be free
Removing all bus fares would be a crucial step in supporting commuters and families through the cost of living crisis, say the Scottish Greens.
Two Australian states - Victoria and Tasmania - have halted all fares until July in response to soaring fuel costs as a result of Donald Trump’s immoral and illegal attacks on Iran. Meanwhile Luxembourg and Malta already have free bus travel for all citizens
The call for Scotland to introduce free bus travel as soon as possible will be made as part of the party’s election campaign launch event in Edinburgh today, which will lay out their vision ahead of the vote in May.
The party’s 2026 manifesto will include a commitment for permanent free bus travel for all, building on the success of free bus travel for everyone under 22, which was introduced by the Scottish Greens in 2022.
Party co-leader Gillian Mackay said:
“All over Scotland people are really struggling and many are being pushed to breaking point.
"We need targeted, practical action that will support households and families on the frontline of the crisis.
“Making it free to travel by bus is one of the simplest, quickest and most effective steps we could take, and one that would make a big difference for people who are already being stretched by increased costs and rising bills.
“It would be an immediate boost for key workers, students and everyone else who has no choice but to travel most days while encouraging people to leave their car at home and supporting public transport."
Gillian added:
“The Greens’ introduction of free bus travel for everyone under 22 has been one of the clearest achievements of the Scottish Parliament.
“Thousands of young people across our communities are saving money, finding new work and learning opportunities, and helping to tackle the climate crisis.
“We want to build on it. There is no reason why Scotland can’t be like Malta and Luxembourg which offer free bus travel to everyone."
