When challenged by Caroline Pidgeon in the London Assembly, the Mayor of London refused to apologise that it has taken 8 months for COVID-19 secure guiding and physical assistance to be provided for the blind and visually impaired on Transport for London services.
Caroline Pidgeon has written to the Secretary of State for Transport asking for him to consider including the Southeastern route between Stratford International and St Pancras in the Travelcard Zoning System.
This would open up new travel routes to many in East London and reduce overcrowding, both now and as we recover from COVID-19.
Caroline Pidgeon has written to the Mayor of London stressing the importance of London's community sports clubs, and calling for the creation of a Sports Recovery Fund.
Sport doesn't just improve physical health but can also be important for mental health too. Sports clubs and facilities will play a crucial role as we recover from COVID-19.
You can sign a petition for the creation of a Sports Recovery Fund here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/553619.
Caroline spoke in the London Assembly to second a motion on trialling Universal Basic Income in London.
It was very disappointing that Labour and the Tories did not allow a vote on the motion. Despite what they say, now is the perfect time for a trial, given the impacts of COVID-19.
Caroline Pidgeon, Liberal Democrat London Assembly Member, commenting on the news of a new funding deal between the Government and TfL, said:
“I am relieved that the foolish and damaging proposals to strip away free transport for under 18 year olds have finally been dropped.
“Young people are suffering enough and these proposals should never have even been considered. I congratulate everyone, and especially young people, who have fought so hard for these proposals to be dropped.
Caroline Pidgeon has written to the Mayor, stressing the severity and urgency of the situation that the creative industries in London are facing during the pandemic, and urging him to lobby the government and to commit to doing all he can for the sector.
Caroline wrote:
Caroline Pidgeon welcomed the prospect of the Thameslink route appearing on the tube map, to remind central London travellers that it's a convenient and less crowded option.
Caroline told the London SE1 website:
"I very much welcome what looks like the Mayor and TfL backing down on this issue.
"There are short and long term arguments for putting Thameslink back on the tube map.
Caroline Pidgeon has criticised Transport for London's move to end cash payments across all Tube stations, without a genuine consultation process.
Caroline told the Evening Standard:
“I remain concerned that TfL is still planning to end cash payments across all of its Tube stations.
“The potential of increased fare evasion appears to have not been considered or the difficulties of people being forced to quickly top up their Oyster cards while on the move.
On the tenth anniversary of the cycle hire scheme, Caroline Pidgeon pointed to the gaps in its coverage - especially in south-east London, and especially at a time when so many people want to cycle rather than use buses or trains.
“The bold expansion of the scheme that took place in the early years of the scheme has halted. It is time that much more ambition was shown.
At the London Assembly Plenary session, Caroline asked questions on support for London’s market traders, sole traders and micro businesses. Market traders are a vital part of London’s economy and culture, especially in areas such as the East End, but also right across the capital.
