Currently, under 18s can get free discounted travel with a zip oyster card which includes free bus travelling with sixteen- and 17-year olds only paying half the adult rate on tube.
However, this scheme is being threatened to come to an end as the government have plans to end free travel due to the impact of London TFL £1.6bn lockdown bailout.
The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan was ordered to end free travel during the pandemic but he refused, stating on twitter how “free travel for under 18s was one of the best things about TFL”
His team argued on the effect it will have on citizens, in particular poorer families in London who will feel the financial burdens.
“government should work with TFL to find a better solution that doesn’t risk hitting the poorest Londoners hardest”
Many young people and families are concerned and due to this controversy, the plan which was originally supposed to take part after October half term, has been delayed.
It is not clear when in the new year the cut will come into force.
What do you think should be done? Should the government carry on with this plan or find other solutions?
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