Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has repeated his accusation that North Yorkshire County Council squandered 75 per cent of Government money intended for rural bus services.

But the council has already answered his accusation. The timetable set for consultation on the best way to spend the money was too tight.

Working out the most effective use of the extra resources in a sprawling county like North Yorkshire takes time. There are no quick solutions to transport problems, as Mr Prescott should know very well. This makes his politically-motivated attack all the more shameful.

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