HC Deb 26 May 1976 vol 912 cc256-7W
Mr. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the total cost of concessionary bus fares for old people in Scotland.

Mr. McElhone

About £10 million in 1975–76.

Mr. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the decision to meet the cost of concessionary bus fares for old people from the budget of local authority social work departments has the approval of his Department.

Mr. McElhone

It is for the appropriate regional or islands council to decide how the cost of concessionary fares is met, and my approval is not required. I know of no decision such as my hon. Friend mentions.

Mr. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the total cost to Strathclyde Regional Council of providing concessionary fares for old people.

Mr. McElhone

Responsibility for concessionary fares schemes lies with the regional and islands councils and information on the cost of individual schemes is a matter for the local authority concerned.