“Free transport the key to fighting child poverty”- Welsh Lib Dems

This week in the Senedd, the Welsh Liberal Democrats have reiterated their calls for free public transport for everyone under the age of 25.

A recent report from the Senedd Petitions Committee highlighted the positive impact that affordable transport could have towards fighting child poverty.

According to the report, public transport fares in Wales have skyrocketed up to 74% over a 10-year period.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have claimed that, because most under-18s rely on buses and trains, exorbitant costs are barring access to education, jobs, and essential activities.

Speaking in the Siambr, party leader Jane Dodds MS citied the free bus scheme in Scotland as an example of the positive benefits that free public transport can have.

The scheme, which provides free bus travel for 5–21-year-olds, has so far generated over 100 million journeys.

Commenting, the Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats Jane Dodds MS said:

“Back in 2021 the Welsh Liberal Democrats pledged free public transport for everyone under the age of 25, this is a promise that we intend to keep.

This policy pledge of ours isn’t just an attempt to win votes, but a genuine plan to help tackle child poverty here in Wales.

In Scotland, the free bus scheme has already shown tangible benefits, generating over 100 million journeys in just the first year. Helping to expand opportunities for young people while easing the strain on family finances.

By providing free public transport for young people, we can break down barriers and work towards directly tackling the persistent challenge of child poverty here in Wales.”