A plan by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham to cap bus fares at £2 per journey has drawn criticism from charities, who say it will hurt the world's most vulnerable people. The fare cap, which applies across England, would reduce the current £3 limit starting next year. Burnham's government intends to fund this change by converting international climate donations into repayable loans.
The decision has sparked concern from aid groups. The director of ActionAid UK said the proposal effectively "throws global south countries under the bus," arguing that using the aid budget this way puts poor communities at risk. The group noted that the money would have otherwise supported climate projects in developing nations.
Burnham announced the policy on Wednesday as part of efforts to lower transport costs. However, critics say shifting aid money to domestic transport could undermine commitments to help poorer countries cope with climate change. The fare reduction is expected to benefit millions of bus passengers in England, but charities warn that the trade-off may be severe for those depending on international assistance.
The prime minister's office has not yet responded to the criticism. The policy is set to take effect next year.