SIR: I was sorry to read the comments of Mr T F Brackall regarding off-peak and bank holiday bus services (Viewpoint, June 23).

Although Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority does not operate any buses, as these have been run independently by private companies since deregulation in 1986, it does work to provide a good, fully accessible public transport system. There is a budget available to help pay for services to workplaces, hospitals and other destinations, but unfortunately this is limited and does not enable us to provide as many services as we would like and in particular we are unable to subsidise services on Bank Holidays due to the high costs involved. Inevitably, some difficulties arise from time to time, but I would like to reassure all bus passengers that the Authority is currently working on new initiatives to improve bus services across the region. The Authority has written to Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott about plans for an integrated transport system involving partnerships between the public and private transport sectors in Greater Manchester.

In partnerships with local councils and bus operators, the Authority is also progressing Bus Quality Partnerships, which will provide better and more responsive services for passengers. This scheme aims to expand the county's low-floor bus services, introduce more bus lanes to improve journey times, particularly in heavy traffic, and provide better information about bus services. The initiative also recognises that if car drivers are to be encouraged to use the county's bus network, then bus services need to be improved. When these improvements are in place, bus passengers across Greater Manchester should begin to enjoy the quality of service they deserve.

Jane Nearney

Public Affairs Manager

GMPTE, Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester

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