MPs from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Buses and Coaches gathered in Old Palace Yard, Westminster in support this year’s Catch the Bus Month campaign led by Bus Users UK.
Parliamentarians from across the political spectrum joined forces to promote the huge social, economic and environmental benefits of these vital services. Around 10 million journeys are made by bus every day yet they account for just 2% of transport emissions and deliver billions of pounds in economic, social and health benefits each year.
Politicians were joined by representatives from Bus Users UK and Dawsongroup, whose specially-branded bus was on-site bearing the new Catch the Bus Month 2025 colours alongside the APPG and Bus Users UK logos.
Mike Wood MP, Bus and Coach APPG Chair, said:
“Buses are the backbone of our communities – connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare and each other. As we mark Catch the Bus Month and celebrate 50 years of Bus Users UK, it’s the perfect reminder of just how vital reliable, affordable and accessible bus services are. The APPG for the Bus and Coach is proud to stand alongside operators, passengers and campaigners in championing the role of the bus – past, present and future.”
Alex Mayer MP, APPG for Bus and Coach Secretary said:
"Buses are brilliant. Day in, day out getting millions of us from A to B, cutting traffic on our clogged-up roads and keeping towns and villages alive. My view has long been if we’re serious about boosting growth and tackling gridlock, then better buses are key. That’s why Catch the Bus Month matters - because local bus networks survive and thrive when people get on board.
"This year’s annual celebration comes as things are changing. The new Bus Services Bill will allow more places to choose to franchise and strengthen Enhanced Partnerships which are already proving their value in communities across the country. So this Catch the Bus Month, our APPG is urging everyone to give the bus a go. No more worrying about parking. Your time back to read, scroll, snooze as the bus driver deals with the traffic. Try it and you might love it!"
Bus Users UK Director for England, Lydia Horbury said:
“Buses are nothing short of societal lifelines. They alleviate congestion, reduce emissions and underpin access to employment, education, healthcare and social connection. Catch the Bus Month is an opportunity, not only to highlight their immense social, economic and environmental value, but to champion the safe, reliable and affordable services that are fundamental to thriving, inclusive communities.”
Managing Director of Dawsongroup and International President of CILT, Paul Sainthouse, added:
“We are delighted once again to support the APPG for bus and coach and Bus Users UK in delivering real impact through this wonderful initiative. We all know the true value of effective public transport and its huge contribution towards delivering society’s economic and environmental objectives, as well as being a key contributor to social cohesion and personal mobility. Assisting in getting that message across is something we are very proud of.”
For information about Catch the Bus Month and full details of how to get involved visit bususers.org/catchthebusmonth
Press contact - Vicki Pulman | press@bususers.org
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