Writing for the Left Foot Forward website, Caroline Pidgeon sets out her policy on London transport fares:
It is for this reason that I think some honesty is needed about fares, especially as within a few years TfL will be facing the permanent loss of £700m per year in state subsidy.
Freezing all fares over many years might sound incredibly attractive, but it is ultimately an uncosted policy. No one knows what it will really cost, as no one knows what inflation will be in three or four years time.
What is certain is that cutting investment in our transport infrastructure would be disastrous. Yet that could well be the only option available to ensure fares are frozen over four years.
I instead advocate no rises in any fares above inflation and targeted cuts for some fares.
As London mayor, I would introduce half price fares before 7.30 am for any journey on TfL rail services (Tube, DLR, London Overground) for anyone using Oyster PAYG or contactless payment
London’s economy is served by many low-paid workers, such as cleaners and security staff, who often get to work long before other people. Half price travel for any journey made before 7.30am would directly benefit many of London’s lowest-paid employees.
The policy also has wider benefits as it will encourage some people to start their journeys at an earlier time. Overcrowding, especially on the Tube, is already a massive issue.
I have also long advocated a 1-hour bus ticket, and it is great to see other candidates unashamedly stealing the idea.
These policies are realistic and can be funded through simple steps, such as not funding the Garden Bridge and cancelling plans for the disastrous Silvertown road tunnel.