HC Deb 07 December 1978 vol 959 cc789-90W
Mr. George Gardiner

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what form the investigation into the possibility of a national concessionary fares scheme, announced by him on 29th November, is taking; and which bodies are being invited to submit evidence for consideration.

Mr. William Rodgers

I have nothing to add to the replies I gave to the hon. Gentleman in the House on 29th November.—[Vol. 959,c. 241–42.]

Mr. George Gardiner

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what he estimates would be the cost of a national concessionary bus fares scheme based 6n the principle of half-fares for retirement pensioners, the registered disabled and the blind.

Mr. William Rodgers

My public ex penditure plans provide £140 million—at November 1977 prices—for half-fare concessions on local buses in England and Wales for people of pensionable age and those who are blind or disabled. This estimate would retain the existing more generous schemes.