(15 Mar 2021, 7:54 pm)Adrian wrote Cheapest is not always the best value to tax payers. When I see public money used, of course I want to see value for money, but I also want to see it being spent in such a way that is beneficial to the general public. If the cost is slightly more with additional quality elements; such as NSAs, real-time information, contactless payments and presentation, then I would see that as better value for money.

It's actually a disgrace that we still see NSAs as a quality measure, rather than something that makes buses more accessible. It's a big positive that there was a suggestion in the Ministerial statement today that this will become legislated going forward.

If it comes to franchising then I'd agree - you wouldn't want GCT throwing some orange buses on the 21 for example. There's scope to grow and nurture that part of the network.

But when it comes to poorly used essential secured services, I don't think you'll ever grow that market so the lower costs the better.