SIR: I am sorry that your correspondent 'Annoyed Bus Traveller' (Viewpoint June 17) has experienced a problem with her local bus services recently.

Although Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority does not operate any buses, as these are run independently by private companies. It does work to endeavour to provide a good, fully accessible public transport system. There is a budget available to help provide socially necessary bus services, but unfortunately this is very limited and does not enable us to provide as many services as we would like. It is inevitable that difficulties may arise from time to time, but I would like to reassure all bus passengers that the Authority is currently working on new initiatives to improve bus services across the region.

The Authority has written to Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott about plans for an integrated transport system involving partnerships between the public and private sectors in Greater Manchester.

In partnerships with local councils and bus operators, the Authority is also progressing with Bus Quality Partnerships, which will provide better and more responsible bus services for passengers. This scheme aims to expand the county's low-floor bus services, introduce more bus lanes and provide better information about bus services. The initiative also recognises that if car drivers are to be encouraged to use the county's bus network, then bus services need to be improved.

When these improvements are in place, bus passengers across Greater Manchester should begin to enjoy the quality of service they deserve.

Jane Nearney

Public Affairs Manager

GMPTE,

Portland Street, Manchester

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.