IT’S often been the butt of jokes but the issue of free bus pass entitlement is a serious political matter. In 2006, during the first year of the scheme, around 900,000 people obtained a National Entitlement Card enabling them to travel for free by bus. Currently, more than 1.3 million over-60s and disabled people benefit from the pass, accounting for about 145 million journeys each year, or a third of all those made in Scotland.
The announcement that the Scottish Government has launched a consultation on raising the age at which Scots can obtain a pass is sure to be met with mixed reactions. Transport minister Humza Yousaf has confirmed the consultation will look at whether the age of eligibility should be raised in one go or incrementally to bring it into line with the state pension age, which will be equalised for men and women in 2018
The free bus pass is just one of a number of policies that lies at the heart of the wider principle of universal benefits which in Scotland extends to free prescriptions as well as free personal and nursing care.
What should be available as of right to all, and what should be targeted towards those with most need has always been a thorny political issue.
Many of those receiving a bus pass aged between 60 and 65 are in work, including people with well-paid jobs, leading to the contention among some that free travel shouldn’t apply to those still in employment.
It’s a familiar argument and one used in relation to other universal benefits. Research however undertaken by the Scottish Government points to another story, demonstrating the free bus pass is greatly valued and works on a number of positive levels for those who use it.
For many, not only does it gives a sense of greater independence and increased confidence in their own ability to travel, but also contributes to a reduced sense of isolation. With this comes improved mental and physical wellbeing. There are also obvious environmental advantages, encouraging people to use public transport.
Currently the scheme costs the Scottish Government around £200 million a year in payments to bus operators. This cash however was cut by almost £10m at the last Scottish budget, prompting fears bus firms would hike prices to meet the shortfall.
The harsh reality is that budget is being hit by austerity, with the prospect of even more economic gloom in the years ahead as Brexit takes its toll. For the moment the Scottish Government is keen to stress passes would not be taken away from those who already benefit or are due to obtain one before the changes come in.
But when budgetary constraints are combined with shifting demographics, change has to be looked at.
The scheme must remain affordable in the long term. Few would surely disagree that access to the benefits of the pass must go to those who need it most and have a greater reliance on free bus travel.
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