On behalf of our members Cliff Reynolds wrote to the local politicians and the Mayor of London expressing our members concern on the future of the Freedom Pass. The following is an extract from their responses.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London

“I have absolutely no plans to withdraw my support for the Freedom Pass, which is provided by London Councils. In fact, during my time as Mayor, I have made the Freedom Pass 24-hour on Transport for London (TfL) services; and I have introduced a 60+ London Oyster photocard to ensure that Londoners who are over 60 but are not eligible for the Freedom Pass can enjoy the same benefits on TfL services”

Dame Angela Watkinson, MP Hornchurch and Upminster

“I am pleased to be able to reassure you that there are no plans to discontinue the Freedom Pass, if there were, I should be the first to protest! I hope you members will continue to use and enjoy their passes.”

Jon Cruddas, MP for Dagenham and Rainham, incorporating South Hornchurch and Elm Park.

“I completely understand why this pass is so important to my constituents. The Freedom Pass is more than just a pass for free travel, it is a lifeline to many people. I will support that this is retained.”

Andrew Rosindell, MP for Romford

“ I was not personally aware of any changes to the Freedom Pass and have not heard any news suggesting it is at risk”

Councillor Michael White, Leader of Havering Council

“As you know , Havering has supported the Freedom Pass for many years now and personally I very much support the provision of free transport for the elderly….. However I and no other serious politician can make promises about the long term future of the Freedom Pass, to do so would be to mislead you about what we can and cannot do…… All I can say is that whilst I very much support free transport for the elderly it does very much come on a list of priorities and we must allocate council funding to the areas where it is most desperately in need.”