Ministers are being urged to subsidise discounted public transport fares to avoid a “car-led recovery” from the coronavirus pandemic. Pressure group Campaign for Better Transport (CBT) claimed boosting passenger numbers on buses, trains, coaches and trams is “crucial” to escape increased congestion and air pollution as restrictions are eased. Latest Department for Transport figures show that weekday car use in Britain has already returned to around 88% of pre-pandemic levels. This is far higher than demand for buses outside London and mainline rail services, which is lagging behind at 61% and 37% respectively. CBT chief executive Paul Tuohy said fears about being infected by coronavirus while using public transport have made people “less confident” about using services.