Minister urges bus firms to add bike racks to help cyclists

Buses should be fitted with bike racks to help cyclists get around on public transport, a Government minister has said, in a move that raises the pressure on bus companies to act.

Andrew Jones, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, said he would “encourage” bus companies to consider fitting their fleets with the racks.

The remarks will be a boost to cyclists frustrated by their inability to catch a bus because of a lack of space for their cycles.

In a written question to Parliament, Mr Jones was asked whether the government was looking at the impact bicycle racks would have on the number of people using public transport.

“The Government is keen to promote cycling, and I am aware that bike racks on buses are commonplace in some countries,” Mr Jones replied. “Whilst we have not conducted any assessments on their role in increasing overall bus patronage, I would encourage bus operators to consider fitting such equipment where it is safe and legal to do so.”