Over 60s free bus travel

Transport secretary Alistair Darling said the scheme was good news

Saturday, 01, Apr 2006 12:00

The over 60s and disabled people will be able to use local bus services for free from today.

The scheme will be rolled out to cover the whole country from 2008, where people will be able to apply to their local council for a free bus pass.

The programme will affect 11 million people and cost the government £350 million, but will only operate in off-peak periods.

Transport secretary Alistair Darling said: "This is good news for older people. As well as helping them to save money, the concessions will enable older people to stay in touch with friends and relatives and reach local services and facilities they depend on.

"Buses offer flexible and convenient transport and concessionary fares will encourage more people to take the bus as well as helping people stay independent."

The scheme has provoked some controversy as campaigners claim that not all people have access to buses, and trains and trams not included in the programme.

There are also fears that local authorities will have to take money from other services for the elderly to pay for the new scheme.

Liberal Democrat shadow transport secretary, Alistair Carmichael, said: "Many areas are facing severe problems with the introduction of this 'free' service.

"Services are being cut or council tax increased because Gordon Brown has failed to fund his scheme adequately. The complicated system basically amounts to a postcode lottery."