HC Deb 09 July 2002 vol 388 c800W
Ms Buck

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to extend the eligibility criteria for concessionary travel schemes in the next four years. [67492]

Mr. Jamieson

From 1 April 2003, men aged 60–65 will benefit from the concessionary travel arrangements available in their area. At present we have no other plans to extend eligibility for concessionary travel schemes.

Ms Buck

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to fund the full cost of concessionary travel schemes in(a) London and (b) all other local authority areas. [67493]

Mr. Jamieson

Government provision for existing concessionary travel schemes is included in the general grant for local authorities. This is distributed using standard spending assessments and it is not possible to provide a meaningful allocation for each authority. Future levels of spending are currently under consideration in the Spending Review. It is for local authorities to decide their spending priorities in the light of their responsibilities and the wishes of their electorate.