There is no power to change grant allocations for past years in the light of outturn. The amounts in Figure 25 are net of adjustments. Part of the capital expenditure allocated to local authorities is for safety schemes on local roads. Figure 26 shows major schemes supported by TSG in recent years. 5 schemes with an estimated total cost of 48 million have been accepted for TSG for the first time.
Bus operators are free to run their services wherever they wish on a commercial basis.
Local authorities are able to provide socially necessary services, not run commercially, after competitive tender. However, all services have to be first registered with the local Traffic Commissioner 42 days in advance. The seven Traffic Commissioners, who are appointed by the Secretary of State, have powers to act against operators for breaches of the registration regulations and where they have intentionally interfered with the services of other operators or operated in a manner dangerous to the public. In addition, the Commissioners have powers to place Traffic Regulation Conditions on the licences of bus operators at the request of the local highway authority to prevent danger to road users or to reduce severe congestion caused by buses. Fuel Duty rebate is paid to reimburse bus operators on the excise duty paid on fuel used in operating eligible local bus services.