Lib Dems Stop Labour Dither Over Fares Increase

3.34.31pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 18th Oct 2004

A decision to increase bus fares for pensioners has been challenged by the borough council Scrutiny committee, following a proposal by Lib Dem leader Michael Headley, despite efforts by Labour members to delay the decision.

Having heard the views of councillors, pensioners and council officers the committee decided to back Cllr Headleys calls for a strong message to be sent back to the Mayor and Cabinet, in spite of the opposition from Labour members. The concessionary fare entitles anyone living in the borough and aged 60 or over to travel for a maximum of 40p within the county. Under plans by Labour and Conservative cabinet members the charge was set to increase by 25% next year. Earlier the committee had criticised Labour Portfolio Holder Apu Bagchi for his refusal to attend the meeting and explain the reasoning behind his decision to increase the fare. Now the decision stands referred back to the Mayor and his cabinet to think again in light of the Scrutiny Committees recommendation.

Speaking on the issue, Cllr Headley said:

"We have sent a very clear message that Bedford Borough Council shouldn't be hiking up fares to local pensioners. I listened to the views of councillors, council officers and Ian Pettit representing local pensioners. It was clear these increases would have serious implications for the borough's bus pass holders. I am glad that the majority of the committee agreed this simply shouldn't happen. It was disappointing that Labour members wouldn't support a strong message back to the decision makers. Instead they wanted to cloud the issue and push any decison off to some point in the future. If Tories and Labour want to do more than just cry crocodile tears, this time they should vote against the increase when it goes back to the cabinet."

Concessionary fares are essential for many borough pensioners if they want to get to the hospital, to shop or to visit friends. The Cabinet now needs to consider whether it wants to ignore our conclusion or carry on regardless."

The Executive will now look at the original decision again in light of Scrutiny's recommendation. The Scrutiny Committee is also planning further work to help the Executive by looking at possible alternatives to a concessionary charge increase.