Story perspectives

Burnham launches £100 fines campaign for antisocial transit behavior

By Drooid · Oct 21, 2026, 2:57 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a campaign to curb antisocial behaviour on public transport, giving local leaders fine powers on 19 October 2026.
The programme allows fines up to £100 for loud music, vaping or littering.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said small passenger behaviour changes improve travel experience.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham called the penalties well-meaning but insufficient to protect transport workers.

History

Historical Context

Tony Blair’s government introduced anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs) in the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 to curb harassment, alarm or distress. By March 2006 the Home Office reported 7,356 ASBOs had been issued, but the 2014 Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act abolished them in England and Wales. Burnham’s 2026 £100 fine scheme echoes this municipal-penalty legacy for noisy commuters.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a campaign to curb antisocial behaviour on public transport, giving local leaders fine powers on 19 October 2026.
The programme allows fines up to £100 for loud music, vaping or littering.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said small passenger behaviour changes improve travel experience.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham called the penalties well-meaning but insufficient to protect transport workers.

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