LAST year, Labour councillors consulted residents in York about the local bus pass for pensioners. Of the responses received many thought that local bus travel should be free for pensioners across the country.

These comments were passed on to local MP Hugh Bayley, as this would have to be decided at a national level. As Labour councillors we were thrilled to hear the Chancellor promise free bus travel for all over-60s from April next year.

Free bus travel will make a massive difference to the lives of pensioners in York. It will encourage people to go out, to visit friends, to stay active, and to get the most out of their retirement without having to worry about the cost of travel.

Older and disabled people have been making the case for free travel across the country, calling for people to get equal entitlement wherever they live.

It is great news that the Chancellor has listened to them, and delivered.

Tracey Simpson-Laing,

Labour spokesperson for planning & transport,

Salisbury Road,

York.

Updated: 11:28 Wednesday, April 06, 2005