To mark the introduction of the Concessionary Bus Travel Bill, No10 Downing Street became a scheduled bus destination for the day. Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander and Local Transport Minister Gillian Merron joined the Prime Minister to welcome a group of older and disabled people who arrived outside the famous front door by bus.
The guests represented a cross section of the 11 million older and disabled people in England who will be able to take advantage of free off-peak local bus travel in every area of the country, from April 2008.
The Prime Minister said:
"I am delighted to welcome people from all over the country to Downing Street this morning who will benefit from the new bus fares scheme. From 2008, disabled people and those 60 and over will be able to travel anywhere in England - not just within their local authority - for free, at off peak times.
"I know many people have pressed for this countrywide scheme - and it was good to have the chance to speak to people today about the difference it will make."
Douglas Alexander said:
"The extra £250 million the Government is investing in free bus travel will give even more freedom and independence to millions of older and disabled people."
The new National Concession will address the concerns of bus users who, until now, got free travel only within their own local authority area, or within Greater London for Londoners
Douglas Alexander added:
"Whether travelling locally, or when visiting other parts of the country, older and disabled people will have even greater access to vital services such as hospitals and shops, and will be able to stay in touch with friends and family".
At the reception, the group of older and disabled people also met the Government's Transport Spokesman in the House of Lords, Lord Davies of Oldham.
The guests represented a cross section of the 11 million older and disabled people in England who will be able to take advantage of free off-peak local bus travel in every area of the country, from April 2008.
The Prime Minister said:
"I am delighted to welcome people from all over the country to Downing Street this morning who will benefit from the new bus fares scheme. From 2008, disabled people and those 60 and over will be able to travel anywhere in England - not just within their local authority - for free, at off peak times.
"I know many people have pressed for this countrywide scheme - and it was good to have the chance to speak to people today about the difference it will make."
Douglas Alexander said:
"The extra £250 million the Government is investing in free bus travel will give even more freedom and independence to millions of older and disabled people."
The new National Concession will address the concerns of bus users who, until now, got free travel only within their own local authority area, or within Greater London for Londoners
Douglas Alexander added:
"Whether travelling locally, or when visiting other parts of the country, older and disabled people will have even greater access to vital services such as hospitals and shops, and will be able to stay in touch with friends and family".
At the reception, the group of older and disabled people also met the Government's Transport Spokesman in the House of Lords, Lord Davies of Oldham.
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