Government Abolishes Half Price Coach Travel

The government plans to abolish half price coach travel for over 60s causing increased social isolation for the elderly and disabled. They should reverse this decision which contravenes election pledges given by both coalition parties. You can help to reverse this decision by signing this e-petition.

100,000 signatures are required for this matter to be debated in the House of Commons.

The Department of Transport says, "The current non-statutory arrangements that enable long distance coach operators to claim BSOG in return for offering a half price concession to older and disabled people will be ended by October 2011, although the industry may wish to continue to offer this on a commercial basis. This does not in any way affect the statutory national concession which offers free travel on local bus services throughout England."

Reasons Why Half Priced Coach Fares Should Continue

• Abolishing the concessions will cause social isolation and loneliness
• Older people rely on the coach concessions for travel to see family and friends
• In the current financial climate many people just won't be able to afford higher coach fares

According to an article in The Telegraph, the move will save the Government £20 million a year by scrapping the Coach Concessionary Travel Scheme. However, the Government seems to miss the vital link that coaches serve for pensioners and disabled people who are likely to be isolated and alone without their concessionary travel.

Sign this e-petition to voice your concern.

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