Transport bill 'should recognise social enterprises'

The bill contains some improvements for community transport organisations, such as allowing some to employ paid drivers rather than having to rely solely on volunteers. But the association said that more should be done to encourage transport commissioners to recognise social enterprise providers.

"This is particularly pertinent given the Prime Minister's new 10-year vision for the third sector, which emphasises a key role for voluntary groups and social enterprises in transforming public services," said Keith Halstead, chief executive of the association.

A spokeswoman for the Department for Transport said: "We are consulting on the Local Transport Bill. The bill will contain only measures that require primary legislation. A great deal of partnership working between local authorities and social enterprises can and has been achieved without legislation."