Buses
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Does she intend to ask the UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel to reconvene to examine it's projected numbers before the end of the current Parliamentary term.
Answered by Simon Lightwood
In March 2025, the UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel was launched, bringing together industry experts and local leaders to ensure the UK remains a leader in bus manufacturing.
The final meeting was held in March 2026. At the meeting, Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs) agreed a set of Commitments:
- A 10% minimum application of social value in all future bus procurement exercises.
- To follow recommendations made in an accessibility compendium.
- To follow recommendations made in a safety compendium.
- To explore collective procurement options across MCAs.
- To continue to share lessons learned on grid connectivity.
It also agreed that the 10-year zero emission bus order pipeline, that was published in March 2026, will be reviewed and updated regularly.
The Government will continue to engage and work with the industry to ensure a competitive UK bus manufacturing sector.
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