During Prime Minister’s Questions on September 11, Sir Keir Starmer did not rule out the possibility of making changes to the free bus pass scheme for people over State Pension age when Conservative MP Louie French urged him to “rule out scrapping concessionary travel fares and Council Tax discounts” for millions of pensioners across the UK.
His comments were made at a time when millions of State Pensioners were still reeling from the unexpected announcement from the Labour Government that in order to help plug a ‘black hole’ in the public purse – now estimated to be £40 billion – Winter Fuel Payments will only be issued to around 1.5 million people this year. The policy change means more than 10m pensioners will not receive payments of up to £300 this winter.
However, the Department for Transport has confirmed that the Government has “absolutely no plans to withdraw the concessionary bus pass scheme”.
The response came after Conservative MP Graham Stuart asked if the Department plans “to continue to fund the universal bus pass for those of pension age”.
In a written response on Thursday, Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: “The English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age, currently sixty-six.
“The Government recognises the importance of the scheme, which supports local bus travel, assists with access to essential local services and helps those who use it to stay active and avoid isolation.
“The Government has absolutely no plans to withdraw the concessionary bus pass scheme.”
The National Entitlement Card (NEC) provides access to many public services across Scotland and gives elderly and disabled people free bus travel across the country. Through the Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme, it also provides reductions on train, Subway and ferry fares.
If you are 60 or over, the card will not have an expiry date on it and is valid for life, providing you continue to live in Scotland. However, for others – including disabled people – it may only be valid for up to three years.
The English national concessionary travel scheme provides free local bus travel to eligible older people and eligible disabled people on bus services in England only.