Free public transport for local under-25s?

A campaign has been launched in Montgomeryshire for free transport for under-25s.

The Liberal Democrats launched the travel campaign in Welshpool and want anyone under 25 years of age in the area and throughout Wales to have free transport on buses and trains.

Jane Dodds MS for Mid and west Wales and leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, said: “Providing free public transport for under 25s provides us with a radical way in which we can get large sections of the population out of private cars and onto sustainable methods of transportation.

“Transport is one of Wales’ largest polluters. We have to do all we can to get people on to public transport and cut traffic and congestion. In turn we would see a reduction in the deadly air pollution which impacts our health.

“In addition to helping tackle climate change, this policy can help cut Wales’ high poverty rates and give young people the leg-up they need as we emerge from the pandemic.

“We want to ensure that nobody in Wales faces barriers to accessing key public services, getting the job they want, or in chasing the opportunities they deserve and affordable and accessible transport represents a key part of breaking down these barriers.

“This is especially true for young people in Wales who are too often forced to work for lower wages.

"It will also help young people in rural areas in particular, who we know often feel trapped if they cannot afford to learn to drive or run a car."