No headphones on public transport could cost up to £100
Britons cite ambient noise and speakerphone calls as top transit grievances
The British government will impose fines of up to £100 ($128) on public transport passengers who disturb fellow riders by playing music through their phone speakers or making loud calls, as part of a crackdown on antisocial behavior on buses and trains.
The Department for Transport announced the measures Monday (local time) as part of its "everyday improvements" policy, aimed at reducing noise and antisocial conduct on public transit, according to local media including The Independent.
Under the new rules, local transport authorities will be empowered to fine bus passengers up to £100 for offenses such as listening to music without headphones or making loud video calls. The penalties will also apply to passengers who vape or litter on public transport — broadly, anyone deemed to be behaving inconsiderately.
Enforcement will be handled not by bus drivers but by transport safety officers or police. Authorities plan to first ask passengers to stop the offending behavior and explain the rules before issuing any sanctions.
Playing loud music or singing on trains has been prohibited by law in the United Kingdom since 2005, but enforcement has long been inconsistent.
The government also plans to launch a nationwide public awareness campaign under the slogan "share the carriage, not the noise," encouraging train passengers to use earphones and discouraging the use of speakerphones or the playing of music and videos aloud.
On trains, passengers who refuse a request from an authorized staff member to stop will face removal at the next station or a fine of up to £1,000 ($1,280).
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said everyone has experienced someone blasting music or videos on their phone on a train. "It's irritating and can ruin the whole journey," he said. He added that the government was launching a national campaign urging passengers to use headphones on trains. "It's a simple thing, but it can make everyone's journey a little more enjoyable," he said.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said it was "really frustrating" that other passengers had to suffer because of the inconsiderate behavior of some. "We will empower local leaders to design bus services that meet the needs of their areas," she added.
Noise on public transport has long been cited as one of the most common grievances among British commuters. A YouGov poll found that ambient noise and speakerphone calls were the leading sources of discomfort for public transport users in the country.
More than 60 percent of voters said they supported action against people who play music or videos loudly, and a majority also backed raising the maximum fine tenfold — to £1,000.
bbo@heraldcorp.com
