§ Mr. Kinnockasked the Minister of State for Defence what was the total cost in the latest year for which figures are available of free and concessionary public transport to members of Her Majesty's Forces.
§ Mr. LambtonThe last full year of operation of the concessionary fare scheme whereby Servicemen and their dependants were able to travel by British Rail Services at 75 per cent. of the public fare was 1969–70. The cost of the scheme to Defence Votes in that year was broadly £700,000 for personnel of all three Ser-358W vices and their families. The concession was withdrawn in May, 1970.
Servicemen and Servicewomen continue to be allowed a number of warrants for free travel by public transport while on leave. This entitlement was increased in April, 1970, and for the financial year 1970–71 the total cost was approximately £6 million.