Commenting on the publication of the Government’s Levelling Up White Paper, a FirstGroup spokesperson said:
“We welcome
the recognition in today’s Levelling Up white paper for the central role public
transport plays in delivering economic growth.
“The
Government’s vision is best delivered through the expertise and innovation of
private transport operators. The vital services and connections we provide help
to create vibrant and sustainable communities.
“We look
forward to seeing further detail on the plans outlined in the paper, and
ensuring the industry continues to progress beyond the pandemic and play its
part in levelling up across the UK.”
Background:
- FirstGroup directly provides employment to people living
in 355 of the 374 local authority districts in the UK, including areas of high
deprivation, or where other employment opportunities are more limited.
- For every 10 jobs directly generated by FirstGroup, a
further 11.5 jobs are supported in the economy.
- Our bus and rail services make a vital contribution to
the economy (worth a direct Gross Value Added (GVA) contribution of £1.4bn in
2019/20)
- For every £10 of GVA directly generated by FirstGroup in
the UK, a further £18 of GVA is supported in the wider economy.