MP Attacks 'batty' idea to stop pensioners free passes

12.00.00am GMT Wed 18th Dec 2002

MP Vincent Cable has co-sponsored a Commons motion condemning the proposal from the Commission for Integrated Transport to scrap the system of free public transport for the elderly and disabled (the CIT had proposed using the money to provide half price travel for unemployed people and other disadvantaged groups).

Vincent Cable said: "a lot of pensioners have been very upset by this proposal not appreciating that the proposal did not come from the government or London Transport but was, merely, a bit of kite flying by a think tank".

"For many elderly and disabled people, the pass is a lifeline and gives them an opportunity to be mobile and active and not stuck at home."

"I see at first hand how distressed people can be - the partially disabled for example - when they face the loss of a Freedom Pass".

"While I understand the need to assist other groups, like students and the unemployed, this is definitely not the way to do it."