Bus fares up under Boris

Bus fares have risen by almost twice as much in London compared to other cities in England since Boris Johnson became mayor, according to Labour.

Research from the House of Commons library shows that between 2008 and 2011 bus fares in the capital increased by an average of 18.5% in real terms, compared to an average increase of 9.8% in English and 8.8% across the country.

Under Boris Johnson a single bus fare using Oyster in London has risen from 90p in 2008 to £1.30 in 2011. On January 2nd 2012 a single bus fare will increase again to £1.35 – a 50% increase over four years.

Pic sent to me by a friendly 148 bus driver!

Labour’s candidate for London mayor, Ken Livingstone is pledging to slash bus fares if elected next year.

As part of his ‘Fare Deal’ plans, bus fares would be cut from £1.35 to £1.20, a reduction of 11%. Critics wonder aloud where this money is coming from, and it does have a ring of "jam tomorrow" about it.


Ken Livingstone said:

“Boris Johnson has raised bus fares at a staggering rate over the last three years. This research shows that the level he has increased them by is unparalleled across England, hitting London bus users in the pocket.

Londoners face a clear choice next year – more fare rises from Boris Johnson, or my Fare Deal plan. I’m pledging to cut the price of a bus ticket from £1.35 to £1.20, and cut all transport fares by 7%, leaving the average Londoner £1000 better off over the next four years.”