Age UK Launches Petition Over 'Under Threat' 60+ Oyster Card
Concession may go as government squeezes TfL funding
People in their fifties would need to wait longer for free travel
Age UK, the organisation which campaigns for the older generation, has launched a petition against proposals to phase out the 60+ Oyster Card.
It describes the plan as regressive and counter-productive and says it unfairly punishes future generations of older Londoners.
Under the proposals, which have been drawn up by TfL which is under pressure by the government to increase its revenue, the benefit will be phased out over a number of years.
Londoners in their 50s will not be entitled to the concession on their 60th birthday, instead they will have to wait longer. The plans will see the concession cut entirely in approximately 12 years.
Full details have not yet been announced and all current 60+ Oyster Card holders will still be able to use their card until they turn 66 when they become eligible for a Freedom Pass.
AGE UK says, “The 60+ Oyster Card is a lifeline for thousands - it's not a luxury. People on low incomes, carers and key workers are among those that will be hardest hit. This cut comes on top of the suspension of concessionary travel before 9am on weekdays.”
The petition states, “① We urge the Secretary of State for Transport to provide Transport for London with sufficient long-term funding that ensures that this and other devastating cuts are not needed.
“② We call on the Mayor to reconsider plans to introduce this cut and maintain his pledge that cuts to concessions will not take place under his Mayoralty.”
Click here if you wish to sign the petition.
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December 17, 2021