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Concessionary Bus Travel Act 2007 (Variation of Reimbursement and Other Administrative Arrangements) Order 2010

My Lords, I have just one point about concessionary travel to raise with my noble friend as a follow-up to paragraph 7.1 of the Explanatory Memorandum, which states: ""The introduction of free off-peak local bus travel throughout England from 1 April 2008 has given the opportunity for greater freedom and independence to around 11 million older and disabled people. The policy recognises the importance of public transport for older people and the role access to transport has to play in tackling social exclusion and maintaining well-being"." Many people feel that it would extend still further the opportunity for greater freedom and independence to older and disabled people if the national concessionary bus pass in England and the senior railcard, which entitles holders to a significant discount on rail fares, were brought together. In other words, holders of the concessionary bus pass would also be able to claim the discount on rail fares but would not have to pay what is currently £26 each year for the railcard. Will my noble friend confirm that the Government are aware of this view, which I support? Will he also say whether the Government either have considered it or would at some stage be willing to consider it? In conclusion, I declare an interest as a holder of both a senior railcard and a concessionary bus pass.