Councils could fine bus passengers £100 for antisocial behaviour
Local authorities could fine bus passengers £100 for blasting loud music, vaping or littering, under new powers intended to curb antisocial behaviour. A nationwide campaign will also remind train passengers to use headphones, as ministers say inconsiderate conduct can spoil journeys and put people off public transport.
Guidance from the Department for Transport explains how councils can use the powers, introduced earlier this year. Any new local rules require approval from the Transport Secretary, and specialist transport safety officers, rather than bus drivers, will enforce them. Transport groups welcomed the potential to improve passenger experience, while unions and opposition politicians argued the proposals lack adequate protections, enforcement and stronger penalties for repeat offenders. The Conservatives also cited a reported 68 per cent rise in assaults against rail staff.
- Bus passengers could face £100 fines for music, vaping or littering.
- Train campaign urges passengers to use headphones.
- Critics say stronger enforcement and worker protections are needed.
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Councils run many local bus services and can set rules for behaviour in public places, subject to national law. New powers allow them to seek approval from the Transport Secretary for rules against conduct such as vaping, littering or playing loud music without headphones.
If a council introduces such rules, specialist transport safety officers would enforce them; bus drivers would not issue fines. The proposals sit alongside a campaign asking train passengers to use headphones. Transport groups, unions and politicians disagree over whether the measures would improve journeys and whether they include enough safeguards and effective penalties.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that loud music, vaping and littering can make journeys unpleasant, deter people from using public transport and contribute to a wider sense of disorder. Giving councils a targeted fine, enforced by specialist officers and subject to national approval, could help set clear standards and improve the experience for passengers and staff.
The case against
Critics argue that £100 fines may be imposed without adequate safeguards or consistent enforcement, and may do little to address serious or repeat misconduct. They also contend that tackling antisocial behaviour requires stronger protections for staff and more effective penalties for persistent offenders, rather than relying on new local rules.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Ordeals on the bus… £100 fine for people who play music, vape or litter on public transport”.