Local MP urges Government to end disabled bus pass restrictions

Yesterday, Harrogate and Knaresborough’s MP, Tom Gordon led an adjournment debate calling on the Government to end current restrictions that mean disabled bus pass holders cannot travel for free before 9:30am on weekdays. While some local authorities choose to use their discretion to offer free travel earlier, the majority do not. Tom used today’s adjournment to highlight the role of the Government in ending these restrictions.

Tom has been campaigning on this issue after he was made aware of the restrictions earlier this year at an event organised by Disability Action Yorkshire. Toms’ previous work on the matter includes raising the topic in Parliament twice, organising a meeting with the relevant Minister, Simon Lightwood, proposing amendments to necessary legislation and hosting a parliamentary event bringing relevant MPs and organisations across the country together.

During the debate, Tom highlighted the damaging impact of time restrictions on disabled bus passes, noting that disabilities don’t start at 9:30am. He criticised the postcode lottery created by differing local policies and argued that the Government, which set the national time limits, has the power, and responsibility, to remove them. The debate demonstrated the impacts these restrictions have on the daily lives of disabled people, including limiting access to education, work and medical appointments.

Disabled people already face higher daily living costs. In a time where support for disabled people is in question, removing the restriction could help to reduce some of the financial strain disabled people face. Tom also raised concerns about potential changes to PIP eligibility, which could further undermine access to bus passes and increase hardship for disabled people.

Tom was disappointed that the Minister once again chose to kick the can down the road, arguing that Local Transport Authorities have discretionary power to remove or alter restrictions. While some authorities have chosen to do this, the majority have not. The Government has the power to remove the restrictions, but they choose not to.

Commenting after the debate, Tom said:

“Disabled people already face physical, social and financial barriers in everyday life, the restrictions on bus pass are yet another arbitrary and often confusing restriction to navigate. Disabled bus passes help level the playing field for disabled people, improving access to work, healthcare and their community.”

“I’m very disappointed with the Government’s response. They say they want to support disabled people – yet when faced with a simple and affordable solution they turn a blind eye. Disabled people are facing soaring costs, every paid journey during peak hours adds strain to already stretched budgets.”

“Disabled bus passes are an aid, not a privilege and we must not lose sight of that. This is a national issue - and it requires a national solution. The Government introduced the time restriction. It has the power to remove it. The question now is whether it has the will.”

ENDS