First said it acknowledges its fares "have often been a matter of public concern" and it will be inviting participation from bus passengers, the public, local MPs, councillors, and the mayor as part of a public consultation.

BBC: Bristol bus fare campaigners hopeful of council debate

MPs from other rural constituencies highlighted the impact of funding cuts on their bus services, however Hexham MP Guy Opperman said that part of the problem was a lack of co-ordination between different counties and different bus companies.

BBC: Bus service funding cuts criticised by MPs

MPs highlighted that more than 70% of local authorities have moved rapidly to reduce funding for supported bus services, forcing operators to push up fares or withdraw services.

BBC: Transport debate

The MPs criticised standards among companies supplying school buses and called for the government to set a national minimum standard for bus contractors serving schools.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Education | School transport 'is in crisis'