Key Points from Mayor Nik Johnson’s BBC Radio Cambridgeshire Interview

The Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Nik Johnson, participated in an interview on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire. Dr Johnson, who was first elected in May 2021 and continues his work as a paediatrician in Huntingdon, responded to inquiries from Daytime presenter Chris Mann and members of the listening public. Below are five key points from his discussion. A listener named Heather from Meldreth inquired if a bus precept on council tax bills would continue, given the government’s recent allocation of £6.6 million to the local authority for enhancing bus services. This funding was revealed this week as part of a £1 billion national initiative for buses throughout England. The existing mayoral bus precept currently adds £36 annually to the council tax for a Band D property. Dr Johnson, who expressed approval for the government’s announcement, stated: “Straight answer? No, there is no plan [to remove the precept].” He further explained, “We need that money at the moment.” The majority of the questions focused on bus services, including one from Trevor Minchley concerning capacity. He noted that buses frequently become overcrowded, particularly when both wheelchair users and parents with buggies wish to board. Dr Johnson suggested that increasing bus frequency would alleviate overcrowding. He affirmed, “We take our responsibility to allowing public transport for all.” Emma Taylor expressed a desire for bus services into Cambridge city centre to be more efficient and economical for families. Dr Johnson responded by stating, “They are changing to a point … we are now having increased use of the buses.” Addressing national issues, Dr Johnson endorsed Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ proposals to raise the National Insurance rate for employers. He characterized this as “It was a necessary decision.” While some businesses, including General Practitioners, have criticized this action, contending it might negatively impact patient services, Dr Johnson remarked, “I’m sure there will be effects.” He also indicated that while he might occasionally disagree with the government, there was “nothing at the moment” that he would not support. Several months into his tenure, Dr Johnson experienced severe complications following open heart surgery, leading him to take a three-month leave of absence. He conveyed to Chris Mann that the demands of his mayoral role “probably contributed to some extent to making me feel unwell.” Dr Johnson described his time away as “very frustrating” but affirmed he had no reservations about returning. He stated, “I never felt it was something I couldn’t get back from. I’m very grateful for the NHS and the people who supported me.” A public consultation regarding the potential public ownership of buses in Cambridgeshire, referred to as franchising, is currently underway and will conclude on Wednesday. Dr Johnson intends to finalize a decision on this policy prior to the upcoming mayoral election in May. He verified his intention to seek re-election. Commenting on the potential outcome, Dr Johnson remarked: “Will it be different? I will be standing on my record.” He added, “It will ultimately be democracy to decide.” For updates on East of England news, follow BBC Beds, Herts & Bucks, BBC Cambridgeshire, BBC Essex, BBC Norfolk, BBC Northamptonshire, or BBC Suffolk on X, Instagram, and Facebook. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available for review.