New Debate Set for Free Bus Passes for Over-60s in England

A significant campaign for equal concessionary bus travel for individuals over 60 in England has gained momentum, with a Parliamentary debate scheduled for January 5, 2024. Currently, free bus travel is available only in certain regions, such as Merseyside and London, where local authorities have chosen to fund it. A petition advocating for this change has surpassed 100,000 signatures, compelling the government to address the issue.

The petition, visible on the Parliament website, calls for the government to provide free bus travel to all individuals over 60 outside London. Advocates argue that the current system is inequitable, as those in England must wait until they reach the state pension age of 66 to access free travel, unlike their counterparts in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, who can use these services starting at age 60. The petition emphasizes the need for equality in public transport access, especially as many in this age group increasingly rely on it.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has acknowledged that implementing such a change would require substantial financial resources. The department stated:

“The government wants everyone to have access to public transport and is committed to improving services. We also recognize the importance of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) in supporting local bus travel.”

The ENCTS currently provides free off-peak bus travel to individuals with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age. This program costs around £700 million annually, and any modifications to its eligibility criteria will need careful consideration regarding financial sustainability.

The DfT further explained that local authorities possess the authority to offer additional concessions beyond their statutory obligations. This could include extending the age of eligibility for the older persons’ bus pass. Funding for these initiatives can be sourced from the recently announced £1 billion boost for bus services, with £712 million earmarked for local councils to enhance their transport offerings.

Currently, the disparity in bus pass eligibility across the UK has raised eyebrows. The DfT noted that concessionary travel is a devolved policy area, resulting in different eligibility ages and programs in each nation. Consequently, this has led to a patchwork of services that vary significantly between the devolved nations and England.

In a recent development, the DfT confirmed that starting in April 2024, English residents will face an additional year’s wait for their free bus pass. This delay aligns with the planned increase in the state pension age, which is set to rise from 66 to 67 by 2028. The government has been adjusting the retirement age since 2014, with future increases to 68 anticipated between 2044 and 2046.

As the debate approaches, advocates are eager to see if this will mark a turning point in securing equitable transport access for older residents across England. The outcome may not only influence public transport policies but also highlight the ongoing discussions about age-related equality in the UK.

For more information about the petition and the government’s response, please visit the Parliament website.