§ Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many councils in England and Wales operate concessionary fares for the elderly; what is the total cost of these concessionary fares; what is the average cost per coun-
654Wmuch they are paying, respectively, in rate rebate; and how many rate rebates they are paying.
§ Mr. OakesIf the hon. Member has in mind those councils which have granted the highest average rate rebate, the information in respect of the period April to September 1974 is as follows:
cil; and how much of the cost to each council is paid by the Government.
§ Mr. CarmichaelLocal authorities' powers to offer concessionary bus fares for elderly, blind and disabled people are entirely discretionary, and comprehensive information on such schemes is not available. However, it is estimated that between 260 and 300 councils in England and Wales operate schemes, at a total cost in 1974–5 of some£35 million. The cost is relevant expenditure for the purposes of rate support grant.