News from Len Duvall OBE: Protecting Bus Drivers from COVID-19 "must remain a top priority"

Commenting on measures to protect London’s bus drivers from COVID-19, Leader of the London Assembly Labour Group, Len Duvall AM, said:

“We understand the anxiety and apprehension of bus drivers carrying out their vital role in getting key workers and other front-line workers to where they need to be under these worrying circumstances.

“The Mayor of London and Transport for London are taking a lead in doing everything possible to protect the safety of bus drivers. This is a high priority. These actions include:

- enhanced cleaning of bus depots;

- trialling the sole use of middle doors on buses;

- physically stopping passengers from sitting near the driver;

- enhanced screening for drivers’ cabins

“If trials are required for the closure of front entrances, there should be an expectation that these are of a minimum timescale and any problems are speedily overcome.

“The Mayor is exploring the possibility of accessing PPE. We are aware of problems with supply chains and current medical advice from Public Health England and the World Health Organisation does not recommend PPE for transport workers and others in a similar position. However, we urge the Mayor to continue lobbying the Government for increased supplies for all front-line essential workers.

“We will continue to raise concerns on behalf of bus drivers, and all essential workers, with the Mayor and TfL. The safety of key workers must remain a top priority if we are to continue to provide essential services in London.”