Government cuts threaten Freedom Pass

Caroline Pidgeon joined Tom Brake MP and Lewisham Lib Dem councillor Chris Maines to highlight the threat that the Government's cuts pose to the future of London's Freedom Pass.

This cut would be a hit of £1.8 million on the council tax payers of Lewisham, according to Liberal Democrat Cllr Chris Maines.

“The Government are moving resources away from London and they are planning a cut that would effectively mean that cross borough travel on buses in London would not be funded.

“This would be a double whammy for Lewisham residents who were promised by Tory Mayor Boris Johnston that he would allow the freedom pass to used before 9.30am on local trains. A promise not yet kept.

“The Freedom Pass has been a lifeline for many people, an opportunity to travel around London and enhance their lives, it must be protected and guarantees given that its use will not be restricted in the future.

“Lewisham already has the highest Council Tax in inner London and further pressures like this would add an extra £20 burden on each bill - the Government needs to treat Londoners like the rest of the Country and fully fund the concessionary fares scheme.”