Why Scottish Government is taking action against anti-social behaviour on buses – Jim Fairlie
Passengers with free bus passes who breach new code of conduct will be banned
Plans to bar unruly passengers from using their free bus passes is “not about punishment without support” but “setting clear expectations”, connectivity minister Jim Fairlie has told The Scotsman.
Mr Fairlie has set out his views ahead of a proposed new law being introduced in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday that would enforce the change in an attempt to reduce anti-social behaviour on board.
The secondary legislation would give ministers the power to suspend or withdraw concessionary travel from passengers who breached a code of conduct expected to be published next year.
It would apply to everyone with free bus passes, such as the under 22s, the over 60s and people with disabilities.
Mr Fairlie said: “Free bus travel has been one of the most transformative policies we’ve introduced in Scotland.
“For older people, people with disabilities, and young people aged 5-21, it’s opened doors to education, work, and social opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach.
“I’ve met countless people who’ve told me how this scheme has changed their lives – whether it’s a young person getting to college without worrying about the cost, or an older person staying connected with friends and family.
“But with this comes responsibility. The vast majority of people who benefit from free bus travel use it responsibly.
“Unfortunately, a small minority do not. Anti-social behaviour on buses – whether it’s abuse towards drivers, intimidation of passengers, or vandalism – undermines the very purpose of these schemes.
“It makes people feel unsafe and erodes confidence in public transport.
“That’s why we’ve taken an important step forward. We’ve set out legislation that will allow concessionary travel to be suspended or withdrawn for anyone who breaches a forthcoming code of conduct.
“Our approach is not about punishment without support; it’s about setting clear expectations while continuing to invest in education, community programmes and early intervention initiatives like Cashback for Communities.
“The aim is to protect a benefit that helps tackle poverty. By making buses safer and more welcoming, we ensure that those who rely on free travel can use it with confidence.
“To be clear – this is not an overnight change. The legislation sets the framework, but detailed reporting and suspension processes will be developed with bus operators and user groups.
“We expect the code of conduct to be published in 2026, setting out clear standards for respectful behaviour. Our approach will be fair and balanced, with safeguards built in.
“Suspension from free bus travel won’t stop someone from paying to use the bus, but operators can choose to refuse a passenger under their existing powers and conditions of carriage.
“This measure is part of a wider strategy to encourage positive behaviour, alongside education and visible safety improvements.
“Free bus travel is more than a policy – it’s a lifeline. Over 2.3 million people hold concessionary cards, and more than half of Scotland’s 334 million bus journeys last year were made under these schemes.
“Since free travel for under-22s began, over 260 million journeys have been taken. That’s a huge success story, and we want it to continue.
“Everyone deserves to travel without fear of abuse. By taking this step, we’re sending a clear message: anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will protect the benefits of free bus travel for those who use it responsibly.”
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.