London's Labour Councils Defend the Freedom Pass for the Elderly
London's Labour council leaders have successfully thwarted a potential threat to the Freedom Pass, a vital travel benefit for over 1.2 million older Londoners. The council leaders, backed by London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, issued a strong statement on Wednesday, effectively dismantling plans to restrict access to the Freedom Pass.
Cllr Claire Holland, the leader of London Councils' Labour Group, emphasized the need for sustainable funding for the Freedom Pass, but firmly opposed any changes that would burden older Londoners. She stated, 'We must defend the Freedom Pass as a lifeline for our elderly residents, and we will not tolerate restrictions on its usage or the modes of transport it covers.'
Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the Freedom Pass's crucial role in enabling older Londoners to travel and stay connected. He said, 'As Mayor, I am committed to protecting the 60+ Oyster card, which provides free travel for hundreds of thousands of older Londoners. The previous Tory government's attempt to abolish it underscores the importance of Labour's commitment to safeguarding concessionary travel for Londoners.'
The threat to the Freedom Pass emerged during the May borough elections, sparking concern among Labour sources who felt pressured to authorize the proposed review. Some Lib-Dem councillors had raised questions about the financial burden on town halls, which are already facing dire straits. However, the Labour councils' decisive action has ensured the preservation of this essential travel benefit for London's elderly population.
