§ Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) if he will allocate additional funds to local authorities to introduce free bus travel for(a) those of pensionable age and (b) those with disabilities; [169786]
(2) if he will allocate additional funds to local authorities to enable subsidised fares for (a) those of pensionable age and (b) those with disabilities to be made available at all times. [169787]
§ Mr. McNultyWe have no plans to allocate additional funds to local authorities to introduce free bus travel, or to extend subsidised fares, for pensioners and disabled people to all times.
The current statutory minimum requirement for concessionary travel in England introduced in 2001 ensures half fares for pensioners and disabled people on local buses for journeys made after 9 30 am. From April 2003, we extended concessionary travel schemes to men aged 60 to 64, bringing them into line with women of the same age. We provided funding to Focal authorities to cover the additional costs of implementing these initiatives. Local authorities may make more generous provision, including free travel on buses and trains, or for concessionary travel at all times, at their discretion in the light of their own financial priorities and local circumstances. Also, from May 2003, we have provided 1512W additional funding to enable half-fares to be made available on many scheduled long-distance coach services for people aged 60 years and over and for disabled people.