Shadow Environment Minister the Rev. Trevor Woolridge was worried about the effect on visitors. And Shadow Transport Minister Mr. Dennis Lister questioned when the increases were put into place.

The MPs spoke out last week as the House of Assembly considered the Government Omnibus (Fares) Amendment Regulations 1995.

Transport Minister the Hon. Maxwell Burgess said these regulations put into law the $10 one-day pass for travel between St. George's and Dockyard.

Mr. Lister pointed out the cost of a three-day pass had already gone up from $17.50 to $20. And the price of a seven-day pass had risen from $27.50 to $32.50.

"When were they increased?'' he asked.

Mr. Lister said the increases were another way of adding to the cost of living and transportation in this country. The Rev. Woolridge said buses were in direct competition with the taxi industry. The increase for a one-day pass represented "one more expense for the visitors to Bermuda''.

"If a family of six attempt to purchase passes that will cost them $60.'' He added taxis also lost out another way.

"Hotels provide the purchase of tokens for use of buses but there is no attempt to promote equally for taxis.'' People "ought to have the right to choose'' their means of transport, he continued.