In less than two months, Britain will go to the polls once again. This time, it’s not a general election. It’s much more important than that. It’s a historic vote that will radically shape this country’s future, whether we decide to stay in the European Union or not. So it deserves a serious debate that allows everyone to weigh up the arguments and make an informed decision. I’m not one of those people who think the “pros” or the “antis” have all the answers. I appreciate there are longstanding reasons why people want Britain to quit the EU. But I believe there are more persuasive reasons for staying in. And my conviction has only grown since I became Transport Secretary.

Does it really matter if bus passengers trust the industry and local authorities to provide the service they need? Transport Focus thinks it does, as trust forms the keystone of any commercial or personal relationship. Trust helps keep existing passengers happy and forms the basis for attracting new passengers. Major changes to how bus services are provided outside London are on the horizon. The Buses Bill is the biggest potential change to the way bus services are financed, operated and structured since the 1980s. Any changes in regulation must have passengers at their heart if trust is to be maintained or built. Our report Bus passengers have their say explores passengers’ trust in and relationship with the bus industry and how to get more people choosing bus.