Minibus bust-up
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• The failure of BET Group subsidiary United Transport International to reach agreement with the newly-formed West Yorkshire Public Transport Company on bus operations in the Leeds and West Yorkshire region, has sparked a bitter contest between the two sides.
Both companies now plan to operate large fleets of minibuses in the region following deregulation. WYPTC has announced that it plans to introduce its fleet of around 100 minibuses on October 26, in order to preempt UT1's plans to introduce a 250-strong minibus fleet in January next year.
WWII', says its MetroBus fleet is, "preparing for all-out war against rival companies." In particular, the company plans to withdraw some double deckers on routes number 6 and 42, to replace them with minibuses.
A new telephone information service is being set-up to provide passengers with detailed information about the new WYPTC services, and there will be back-up advertising in the local press on radio and on television.
WYPTC says it has agreed new pay and conditions terms with the TGWU, and expects to have 130 drivers and couriers in place by the launch. of the new services on October 26.