Long run productivity and profitability in the British bus industry

The passing of the Transport Act 1985 deregulated and privatised bus industry in Great Britain outside London, however failed to address prime specified aim reversing long run decline patronage. Review literature suggests one main reasons for this was due subsequent consolidation that resulted anti-competitive market structures outcomes, i.e. inefficient production fare levels monopoly profits. In current study, British is analysed over period 1994 2016 through estimation Malmquist productivity indices supplementary profit data order look evidence such outcomes. From mid-point reviewed however, results London are entirely consistent with opposite, efficient This also found be case areas, but most striking characteristic these areas continual technical change declines. clear long-term structural decline. policy implications any measures should part a package wider actions seek improve underlying economics service provision Britain. an albeit limited amount past research, would appear lie direction proactive public transport initiatives car use limiting measures.