Freedom Pass cash crisis - Row develops as to who will fund pensioners lifeline

Published: 08 October 2010
by TOM FOOT

FEARS over the future of the Freedom Pass were heightened last night (Wednesday) when it was revealed a row has developed over who will fund it.

The West End Extra has learned that Transport for London (TfL) bosses have written to London Councils – the body that funds the free travel passes for pensioners across London – warning them they would have to foot the shortfall caused by government budget cuts.

TfL – which is facing a 40 per cent reduction in funding – was set to sign a cost-sharing agreement with London Councils to supplement for the pass.

In a letter to the chairman of London Councils Jules Pipe, TfL Commissioner Peter Hendy said a massive shortfall in funding meant it was “impossible” to continue as planned. He added: “TfL now faces cuts to its government grant. This makes it impossible for TfL to absorb the gap. As a result, TfL is no longer in a position to sign the draft deal.”