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The battle for our buses
Since Scotland’s buses were deregulated more than 30 years ago, fares have soared and passenger numbers have slumped. It’s time for Glasgow to follow Manchester and Liverpool and take back control of its bus network, says SUSAN GALLOWAY
Campaigners from Friends of the Earth Scotland, Get Glasgow Moving and the International Transport Workers Federation gather in George Square, Glasgow, demanding better public transport as an essential part of addressing climate change during the Cop26 summit in the city

THE 40,000 delegates to Cop26 left Glasgow having enjoyed the benefit of a free integrated public transport system during their stay. 

They each had an Oyster-style travelcard allowing them to travel for free, hopping on and off the subway, trains and a fleet of electric buses brought in to run every five minutes to the conference venue. It was a service the citizens of Glasgow can only dream of.

The reality is that Scotland’s public transport system is a national disgrace. The powers for change which came with the Scottish Parliament have been squandered. 

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