The Act Miscellaneous Section 43 Power to obtain information about local services
71.This section enables a local transport authority to obtain from bus operators basic statistical data which may be needed in connection with any of its public transport functions - for example, in the context of local transport strategies or tendering of bus services. The data is limited in subsection (2) to passenger journeys, bus mileage and fare structures. There is a requirement in subsection (3) to produce it in any reasonable form; and in subsections (4) and (5) not to disclose it except with consent or in other specified circumstances.
72.A local transport authority that, without reasonable excuse, discloses information other than in accordance with subsections (4) and (5) commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale. In certain circumstances an employee of the authority can also commit an offence and be subject to the same penalties as the authority.