Free over 60s bus pass update as DfT issues response

The Department for Transport has reacted to calls for the introduction of a free bus pass for anyone over the age of 60. A Parliament petition has demanded free bus travel be "extended" to all road users over the age of 60, with current rules blasted as "unjust".

Experts demanded the need for "equality on public transport" with many road users over 60 ditching their vehicles. Under the current system, individuals are entitled to free bus travel when they reach the State Pension age of 66. Only in London can all residents over 60 travel for free on buses, Tubes and other forms of public transport. The petition reads: "We call on the Government to extend free bus travel to all people over 60 years old in England outside London. We believe the current situation is unjust and we want equality for everyone over 60.

"Currently, people in England who do not live in London are not entitled to free bus travel until they reach the state pension age, which we believe has changed dramatically.

"As people get older, some over 60s drive less and less, therefore we believe we need equality on public transport."

The petition has so far received over 64,400 signatures with 100,000 needed before the end of June to get the issue formally debated in Parliament.

However, just 50,000 are required for an official Government response, with the DfT weighing into the issue earlier this year. 

The DfT replied: "The Government wants everyone to have access to public transport and is committed to improving services.

"We also recognise the importance of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) in supporting local bus travel, assisting with access to essential local services and helping those who use it to stay active and avoid isolation.

"The ENCTS provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age, currently sixty-six.

"The ENCTS costs around £700 million annually and any changes to the statutory obligations, such as lowering the age of eligibility, would therefore need to be carefully considered for its impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability."

The DfT stressed the government had already confirmed a £1 billion boost for buses. Of this total, £712 million has been allocated to local authorities to supporting and improving bus services.

Officials added that local authorities in the UK stressed that local authorities in England do have the power to offer further concessions.

It means councils do have the power to extend the age of eligibility for the older persons’ bus pass if they wished.

However, these would be additional local concessions provided and funded by local authorities from local resources.