Government update over free bus pass for State Pensioners | Personal Finance | Finance
The Department for Transport has allayed fears over the possible discontinuation of the concessionary bus pass scheme, assuring that it is here to stay. Speaking after Conservative MP Graham Stuart raised questions on the matter, Transport Minister Simon Lightwood made it clear in a written statement that there are no intentions from the UK Government to axe the valuable transport benefit for older residents and those with disabilities.
Simon Lightwood’s assurance came as a relief to many, stating: “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.”
He went on to confirm: “The Government has absolutely no plans to withdraw the concessionary bus pass scheme.”
Relief spread among pensioners as this confirmation quelled the rising speculation ahead of the Autumn Budget. Such concerns were sparked when Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer did not outright dismiss the idea of potential changes to the free bus pass programme during Prime Minister’s Questions on September 11, especially when pressed by Conservative MP Louie French about whether to “rule out scrapping concessionary travel fares and Council Tax discounts” for millions of seniors reports the Daily Record.
In the wake of an unexpected announcement from the Labour Government that has left millions of State Pensioners in a state of uncertainty, it has been reported by the Daily Record that Winter Fuel Payments will only be issued to approximately 1.5 million individuals this year. This is part of an effort to plug a ‘£22billion black hole’ in public finances, now estimated to be £40bn.
The policy change implies that over 10m pensioners will not receive payments of up to £300 this winter. Only those receiving a means-tested benefit such as Pension Credit will qualify for the annual heating bill assistance.
It’s important to remember that the National Entitlement Card (NEC) scheme in Scotland, which offers free bus travel for people with a disability, long-term illness, physical or mental health condition, is managed by the Scottish Government and is available to older people from the age of 60 – not State Pension age. The Strathclyde Concessionary Travel Scheme also provides reductions on train, Subway and ferry fares.
However, for some, including disabled individuals, it may only be valid for up to three years and will need to be reviewed. The English national concessionary travel scheme provides free local bus travel to people over 66 and eligible disabled people on bus services in England only.
