A growing movement is demanding free bus passes for all over-60s in England, arguing that the country lags behind Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, where residents qualify at age 60. A petition calling for the eligibility age to be lowered from 66 to 60 has gained nearly 30,000 signatures, with campaigners insisting that the current system is unfair.
The government has now responded to the debate, acknowledging the importance of concessionary travel but warning that any expansion of the scheme would require careful financial assessment. With costs already reaching £700 million per year, officials say changes to the eligibility rules would need significant funding.
Government’s Response to the Petition
According to Bristol Live, the Department for Transport (DfT) has addressed the growing calls for expanding free bus travel under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS).
Responding to a direct question from Liberal Democrat MP Daisy Cooper, Simon Lightwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Transport, explained that while the government recognizes the value of public transport, any adjustments must be financially viable. He stated:
“The ENCTS provides free off-peak bus travel to those with eligible disabilities and those of state pension age. The scheme costs around £700 million annually, and any changes to the statutory obligations, such as extending the times of use, would therefore need to be carefully considered for its impact on the scheme’s financial sustainability.”
Despite this, campaigners argue that England’s bus pass policy is outdated and unfair, particularly when compared to other UK nations where the threshold is already set at 60 years old.
How Does England Compare to Other UK Nations?
The petition, created by Karen Hickman, highlights that England is the only UK nation where over-60s do not automatically qualify for free bus travel. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, residents receive free bus passes at 60, while in England, only those living in London or Merseyside can claim the benefit early.
The petition states:
“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.”
It also emphasizes that as people age, they tend to drive less, increasing their reliance on public transport for essential travel, medical appointments, and social inclusion. Advocates argue that lowering the age for bus passes would help older people stay active, avoid isolation, and maintain independence, particularly as the cost of living crisis continues to strain household budgets.
Could the Age Limit Be Lowered?
While the government has not committed to lowering the eligibility age, it has pointed out that local councils already have the power to offer extra travel concessions at their own discretion. Some areas, including London and Merseyside, already allow over-60s to travel for free before 9:30 AM, a benefit not available nationwide.
The DfT clarified its stance, stating:
“Local authorities in England do have the power to offer concessions in addition to their statutory obligations, for example, by extending the age of eligibility for the older persons’ bus pass. These are additional local concessions provided and funded by local authorities from local resources, depending on the needs and priorities of each area.”
With public demand growing and the petition gaining signatures daily, the issue could soon reach the 100,000-signature threshold, potentially leading to a Parliamentary debate. If MPs take up the discussion, it could pave the way for future changes to the eligibility rules for free bus passes in England.
