Labour Faces Backlash Over Pensioner Travel Passes

Labour faces increasing pressure to confirm that free travel passes for pensioners will not be scrapped, following ambiguous statements from government ministers. Shadow Transport Secretary Helen Whately criticized Labour for allowing speculation to persist, calling it 'immensely cruel' to pensioners already affected by cuts to winter fuel payments. Transport Minister Lord Hendy failed to provide a definitive commitment regarding the continuation of the National Bus Pass and the London Freedom Pass, suggesting that the current fiscal situation might necessitate changes. A Department for Transport spokesperson quickly clarified that Hendy misspoke and affirmed that there are no plans to eliminate these benefits. Concerns have been raised about the potential means testing of free bus passes, which could disproportionately impact older citizens who rely on these services for independence. As the upcoming budget looms, fears are mounting that the government may impose further financial burdens on pensioners.