My Lords, Clause 21 has been mentioned a few times during the passage of the Bill and it certainly was an issue in the debate at Second Reading. I am clear that the clause does not belong in this Bill. It does nothing whatever to improve bus services for people—rather, it is merely a piece of
political dogma from the Conservative Party. As has been said many times, this Bill is generally seen in a positive light, but this clause runs against all that. Local authorities have powers under the Localism Act 2011 and associated general power of competence provisions. What is wrong with allowing a company to be formed and for it to compete on the open market, win contracts if it can demonstrate better value for money and offer a better service?
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We have also heard that the present municipal bus companies often run some of the most competitive and best services in the United Kingdom. For example, Nottingham City Transport, a bus company that I know very well—I lived in Nottingham for many years—has one of the highest passenger journeys per head outside London. It has been praised for its innovation and service delivery, and it was awarded bus operator of the year in 2012 and 2014. Reading Buses, which won bus operator of the year in 2015, has also been praised for its combination of innovation, strong performance and marketing initiatives. UK Bus Awards has given Nottingham and Lothian gold awards in 2015 and 2013 respectively, silver awards to Nottingham in 2014 and Reading in 2012 and 2013. Reading also got an award in 2015.
This clause goes too far. As I said, it is political dogma and does not belong here. If we want to improve passenger services and passenger numbers, all options should be on the table at the very least. I hope that the Minister will agree to take away this dreadful clause and reflect on the debate this evening. I beg to move.