26/05/2015

Scrap TfL Free Travel Perk - GLA Conservatives

Over £22 million in fares was lost last year by Transport for London (TfL), according to the Conservative Party.

People living with TfL staff members were given free travel by the government body as part of its 'staff nominee pass' system.

The Greater London Authority (GLA) Conservative Group's 'Free Ride' report states the scheme will cost London £111 million up to 2020.

With over eight million journeys undertaken last year, the group has called for the free travel perk to be scrapped.

The GLA Conservative Leader, Andrew Boff, suggests investing the money into providing free travel passes for firefighters in line with what police officers receive.

Mr Boff added any funds which are left over could purchase additional buses for the TfL.

He said: "At a time when the public sector is having to make money stretch further, there is no justification for individuals who do not provide an essential role in keeping London in operation receiving these types of benefits.

"I would argue that abolishing the perk would free up money that could be spent on providing complimentary travel cards for firefighters who unlike the police do not presently get free travel on the TfL network."

"Equally, extra Routemaster buses could be brought into operation to help keep London moving."

(LM)

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