Following Islington Labour’s statement of opposition to a Liberal Democrat “review” of bus passes and concessionary travel, London Labour councils announced that they would block any review or scrapping of the scheme. Protecting it for those that need it most.

Last week three Liberal Democrat groups in London Councils announced that they would launch a review into scrapping concessionary travels and the freedom pass scheme. They argued that the “monetary burden” was too high for councils to sustain.

In a response to the review Islington Labour stated that “the proposal is unnecessary and damaging to the most vulnerable in our communities. The savings that they make are far outweighed by the benefits of reducing social isolation and keeping our communities connected”.

In the 2026/27 council budget, we have committed to spending £12.5 million to keep the bus passes and if re-elected will commit to protecting concessionary travel for those that need it.

After Islington Labour’s statement was released Councillor Claire Holland, leader of London Councils’ Labour Group, said: “It’s clear that we need to ensure the Freedom Pass is funded sustainably, but this cannot be done at the expense of older Londoners. We know the Freedom Pass is a vital lifeline for our older residents and we must defend it. Labour councils will oppose any changes that would see restrictions placed on who can use it and which modes of transport it applies to.”

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “The Freedom Pass is crucial for older Londoners, enabling them to travel around the city and stay connected to friends and family, Labour councils have my full support in committing to keep it.”