Transport for London has cut more than 20 bus routes across the capital, triggering fierce criticism from Labour MPs who warn the reductions will hit the most vulnerable communities hardest.
The cuts—which include route cancellations and reduced frequency on other services—follow the expiry of emergency government funding and TfL's ongoing financial crisis. Thousands of daily commuters now face longer journeys or alternative transport arrangements as the changes take effect.
London Labour MPs have condemned the decision, arguing the cuts disproportionately affect shift workers, elderly residents, and those without access to private transport. Several have called on Mayor Sadiq Khan, who chairs TfL, to find alternative solutions to protect essential services rather than reducing the bus network that many communities depend upon.
TfL defended the changes as necessary for financial sustainability, stating it has sought to minimise passenger impact whilst achieving required savings. The transport authority received emergency funding packages during COVID-19, but these expired without a long-term settlement from government, forcing difficult decisions on service provision.
The cuts highlight broader pressures facing public transport across Britain. Operators are struggling with reduced passenger numbers since the pandemic and rising operational costs, whilst government funding remains uncertain. For Londoners, the bus route reductions represent a visible impact of these financial pressures on one of the world's largest urban transport networks.