Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps he is taking to reduce the number of (a) physical assaults, (b) sexual assaults and (c) incidences of harassment on public transport.

No one should have to face the risk of violence when travelling. We are taking action to make sure our transport network is safe for all. The Government appointed independent Champions to advise on violence against women and girls on transport in 2021, who then published 13 recommendations in March 2022. We are working with partners across industry and Government to deliver against those.

The British Transport Police (BTP)’s 61016 text service and Railway Guardian app encourage reporting of incidents. Operation Cerium provides an enhanced visible presence to reassure staff and the public. We are also supporting the Rail Delivery Group and BTP to reduce work-related violence on the rail network by 25% by May 2024.

The 2021 National Bus Strategy set out that the sector should strive for the highest safety standards. Bus Service Improvement Plans should demonstrate how Local Transport Authorities, bus operators, and other stakeholders will work together to ensure that bus services are safe for all.