Why I’m Backing Action on Loud Music on Public Transport

We’ve all been there. You’re on a bus or train—maybe heading to work, school, or just trying to get home—and someone nearby starts blasting music or a video on their phone. No headphones. No consideration. Just noise filling the carriage and making what should be a peaceful or productive journey feel tense and uncomfortable.

It’s a growing problem, and one that’s regularly raised with me by local residents—especially those who rely on public transport every day. For many, it’s more than just an irritation. It can make shared spaces feel chaotic or even unsafe, especially for women, young people, and those with sensory needs.

That’s why I’m backing the Liberal Democrats’ call for tougher action on what we’ve come to call “headphone dodgers.” We’re proposing fines of up to £1,000 for anyone who plays loud music or video on public transport without using headphones. This isn’t about cracking down on fun—it’s about creating a respectful, welcoming atmosphere on buses, trains, and tubes.

A recent poll found that over half of people wouldn’t feel comfortable asking someone to turn their music down. That figure rises to almost two-thirds among women. That says a lot about the pressures people feel in these situations, and why clear rules—and the confidence that they’ll be enforced—matter.

The Government insists there are already rules in place, but let’s be honest: most people don’t know what they are, and they’re barely ever enforced. That’s why we’re calling for an amendment to the Bus Services Bill to make expectations clearer and tougher, backed by a national awareness campaign.

We need to make it absolutely clear: shared public spaces come with shared responsibility. If you're wearing headphones, great. If you’re not, don’t hit play. It’s about basic courtesy and ensuring everyone—whatever their journey—is treated with respect.

I’ll keep supporting this call in Parliament and urging Ministers to take it seriously. Small changes like this can make a big difference to everyday life, and that’s what good transport policy should be all about.

If you've had your commute disrupted by antisocial behaviour or loud music, I'd love to hear your experience. Together, we can push for a better, quieter journey for all.