For immediate release

MSP for Rutherglen Constituency, Clare Haughey, has welcomed the news that over 7.6 million free bus journeys have been made in South Lanarkshire this year, thanks to the SNP Scottish Government protecting free bus passes for the over 60s and those with disabilities, as well as introducing free bus travel for under 22s.  

The Scottish Government has consistently protected free bus passes for everyone over 60, and disabled people, while also extending the scheme to injured veterans.  By contrast, in England, pensioners only receive their free bus pass upon reaching the state pension age of 66 – six years later than is the case in Scotland.  

The free bus travel scheme for under 22s, introduced in 2022, is helping young people across Rutherglen and Cambuslang access work, education, and training – free of charge.  No equivalent scheme exists anywhere else in the UK. 

In South Lanarkshire, over 7.6 million free bus journeys have been made under these schemes in 2023/24, contributing to the over 178 million free journeys recorded across Scotland this year. 

Commenting, Clare Haughey said;

“The delivery of over 7.6 million free bus journeys in South Lanarkshire this year is a fantastic achievement, that demonstrates the Scottish Government’s commitment to improving travel for our youngest, oldest, and most vulnerable citizens.  

“While the UK Labour Government is determined to strip pensioners of their Winter Fuel Payment, the SNP Government is supporting our pensioners by protecting free bus passes from age 60 – unlike in England, where they’re issued at age 66.  

“While the UK Labour Government is busy increasing tuition fees in England, we’re supporting our young people by introducing free bus passes to support them going to work, school, education or further training.  

“These free bus passes are a lifeline for many – helping people access essential services, education, and employment – and demonstrate the difference that Scottish Government policies are making here in Rutherglen and Cambuslang.”

ENDS