Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Local Transport Simon Lightwood will speak on the final day of Euro Bus Expo on 12-14 November at the Birmingham NEC, the show’s organiser has announced.
The minister with remit for coach and bus will address visitors at the beginning of the session (10.15am) in the Masterclass Theatre at the industry’s flagship trade show.
Mr Lightwood will talk about the government’s ambitions for the coach and bus industry. He will also no doubt allude to the key role played by manufacturers and suppliers like those in attendance at the show in delivering this.
The Buses Bill is also sure to be promoted as the government’s means of supporting local authorities in pursuit of franchising. He may also discuss the one-year extension of the bus fare cap in England which was announced last week.
The government has made no secret of its desire to reform bus services – as Mr Lightwood outlined during his address at the Confederation of Passenger Transport conference in January, when he also gave much of his attention to the coach sector.
Helen Conway, Event Director for the Expo’s organiser, Diversified Communications, says: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Transport Minister Simon Lightwood to day three of Euro Bus Expo.
“His support highlights the importance of the coach and bus industry, and his presence underscores the vital role we all play in shaping sustainable and efficient public transport for the future. It will be honour to have him there showing his commitment to the issues that matter most to our sector.”
Mr Lightwood’s appearance in the Masterclass Theatre section of Euro Bus Expo forms part of what is a strong line-up of speakers this year.
A host of industry experts will deliver their insights over the three sessions of five hours-plus.
Among those on stage will be Bill Hiron, ALBUM Chair; Luke Marion, MD of Oxford Bus Company; and Ian Downie, Head of Yutong UK, Pelican Bus and Coach.
The inaugural CPT Operator Forum on day two, hosted by the body’s President’s Graham Vidler, will inspire thought-provoking discussions aimed at driving innovation and growth in the sector. Speakers include Martin Dean, Managing Director, UK regional bus, Go-Ahead; and Louise Cheeseman, founder and Chair of Women in Bus and Coach.
The Masterclass Theatre will end with the announcement of the winner of the Innovation Challenge Award 2024, as voted for by visitors to the show.
Register for free to join 8,000 attendees at the industry’s premier trade show, where more than 190 exhibitors, including 21 vehicle dealers, manufacturers, and converters, will be on show.
