§ Mr. GorrieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will extend the travel discounts afforded to pensioners to allow for reduced fares on taxis. [57607]
§ Mr. MacdonaldLocal authorities are able at present to provide pensioners with concessionary travel by taxi if they so wish. Local authorities have discretionary powers under section 93 of the Transport Act 1985 which allow any local authority, or any 2 or more local authorities acting jointly, to establish a concessionary travel scheme for eligible categories of person including pensioners. At present all Scottish local authorities, except Orkney Islands Council, operate concessionary travel schemes and a number include taxicards for pensioners.