The Transport Minister recently visited a coach company within the county to see and hear how the Government can help the country’s transport businesses.
Charlotte Vere, Baroness Vere of Norbiton stopped off at Mason’s Coaches in Cheddington in the Aylesbury Vale on June 24 and heard what needs to be done to help transport companies as we enter the latter stages of the pandemic.
During the visit, Baroness Vere enjoyed a coach ride with Mason’s customers, a meet and greet with the Masons team and a roundtable discussion on how to encourage more coach travel both as the pandemic gets closer to ending, and for the longer term alongside Masons, the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), Buckingham MP Greg Smith and Visit Buckinghamshire.
The minister was also shown the practical challenges of deploying wheelchair lifts where there is insufficient roadside space and heard directly from customers about how the accessible, affordable, and inclusive nature of coach travel ensures they can see family and friends and enjoy a day out.
Greg Smith MP was also there on June 24
Director of Business Operations at Masons Candice Mason said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Baroness Vere to Masons today.
“She was able to hear directly from our customers about how much they enjoy travelling with us to places and attractions locally and further afield.
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“Many of our customers are keen to get out and travel but they need the confidence to do so.
“It’s crucial that the Government works with the industry to provide this and actively encourage customers to return as we complete the unlocking roadmap.”
Buckingham MP Greg Smith said: "I was delighted to welcome Transport Minister Baroness Vere to Cheddinton to visit Masons Minibus and Coach Hire Ltd to hear how the UK Government can help back Britain's coaches as we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I have regularly raised the plight of the coach industry during the Covid-19 pandemic in Parliament, supporting local firms like Masons and also Countryside Coaches in Princes Risborough."
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