Tories demand crackdown on people playing loud music on public transport

People playing loud music on public transport could face a crackdown under plans set out by the Tories. The party wants to change the law to ban bus passengers from blaring out noisy music and for tougher enforcement of existing rules on trains.

Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden said: "Inconsiderate and obnoxious behaviour blights the lives of the travelling public. Taking public transport shouldn't mean having to endure somebody else's choice of crap music blasted through a speaker at full blast

"Rail passengers need to see enforcement and swift justice for those who make people's lives a misery and bus passengers need the same laws to protect them against this nuisance.

"Our proposals and amendments will end the two-tier system and be an important step in making sure every journey is free from the blight of anti-social noise.

"Only Conservatives will make sure passengers get the quiet, comfortable journeys they deserve."

Railway byelaws currently prohibit playing music "to the annoyance of any person".

But the Conservatives will seek to ensure operators properly enforce the rules in future legislation, with on-the-spot fines.

The party will also table changes to the Bus Services Bill currently going through Parliament to extend similar protections to passengers on buses.

Neil O'Brien, Shadow Minister for Policy Renewal and Development, called for a "more orderly environment".

He said: "People playing music or TikTok out loud on public transport is not just annoying but can create an atmosphere of intimidation, with passengers worried about what will happen if they intervene.

"We need to create a new national norm, as part of creating a more orderly environment and taking back our streets and public places."

The Lib Dems have already pushed for similar action, calling for fines of up to £1,000 for "headphone dodgers" who play music out loud on buses and trains.

A Department for Transport spokesperson said: "There are already strict rules in place to prevent anti-social behaviour on public transport, including possible fines of up to £1,000.

"We are also introducing further measures to help tackle anti-social behaviour on the bus network, including mandatory training for staff on how to respond to incidents."