BUS firm McGill's has been accused of failing to enforce strict social distancing measures on its services in Renfrewshire.

Councillor Carolann Davidson has slammed the transport operator after a resident complained to her about being on a “packed” number seven service between Paisley and Linwood.

The passenger, who boarded in Paisley’s Causeyside Street, claimed the only seat which was blocked off was the one behind the driver – and the bus was full by the time it reached Linwood.

Councillor Davidson, who represents Paisley East and Central, said: “I was horrified when I was told by a constituent about a packed number seven bus to Linwood this week.

“My constituent told me they were extremely uncomfortable with the close proximity of other passengers and understandably felt scared, with the seats directly in front and behind being occupied. McGill’s have to ensure every second seat on their buses is cordoned off.”

McGill’s has insisted it will be putting in place a seat blocking system “as soon as possible” and bosses have said additional buses are being introduced at busy times.

A spokesman added: “Government guidelines are clear on the need for people to only make essential journeys and to physically distance.

“Additionally, there is an expectation for public transport users to wear face coverings. Government guidance is also clear it may not be possible to maintain a two-metre distance at busy times and drivers cannot currently refuse travel to people who refuse to wear a face covering.

“McGill’s have extensively published the safety advice and we would strongly urge public transport users to follow this.”

The Scottish Government has come under pressure in recent days to make face coverings on public transport mandatory, after the UK Government announced it would be implementing the measure.

Councillor Davidson insists Holyrood ministers should be following suit.

She added: “My constituent was the only person on the packed bus wearing a face covering.

“Scottish Government guidance is now that people should wear face coverings on public transport and in confined places but this has to be more than just guidance.

“The Scottish Government should follow the lead of the UK Government and make face coverings compulsory on public transport and in shops. Guidance isn’t working in this respect.”

A Transport Scotland spokesman said it has issued clear advice that a face covering should be worn when travelling on public transport unless you have a valid health reason not to do so.

He added: “Work is ongoing across the Scottish Government and with stakeholders on the use of face coverings. We are also keeping any future need to make them mandatory under review.”

Read all the latest from Renfrewshire and beyond

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