§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that the rise in the cost of living since 15th April has eroded the value of existing welfare benefits and of the proposed new rates; and if he will introduce legislation to 593W offset the effect of this by providing that retirement pensioners and others holding documentary evidence from his Department shall be entitled to travel free of charge art off-peak periods on public transport.
Mr. Bob BrownNo. Legislation already enables local authorities outside Greater London to arrange for free travel or reduced fares on buses for the old, blind and disabled. Similar permissive powers for the councils of London boroughs, covering London bus and underground services, are provided in the Transport (London) Bill.