THREAD- This Governments decision to withdraw free travel for under-18s in London is simply wrong.

After my adjournment debate last month I wrote to the Government to ask a number of questions about the decision to withdraw free travel. 1/7

Firstly I have sought clarification about whether this would be a temporary measure or whether this is permanent- if the latter this would have an even bigger impact on so many families who are already struggling with the bills.

Govt need to provide urgent clarity on this... 2/7

Secondly I have asked for MPs in the debate to see a copy of any equalities assessment that the Government have done on this decision.

As myself & @hammersmithandy raised in the debate this will have a disproportionate impact on BAME families in London... 3/7

Another issue is the cost of bringing in a new system from scratch- especially as some young people will have a legal right to free travel; if they meet certain criteria.

When I asked Sadiq Khan about this at TSC he confirmed that govt simply haven't thought this through. 4/7

I know some people say that taking away free travel will encourage cycling.

I fully support active travel but for some young people cycling to school isn't possible- either because of distance, cost (to maintain & store bike) or because of safety concerns. 5/7

My biggest concern is that this huge decision was sprung on TFL at the last minute by the Government- who had no clear thought or plan about the impact it would have.

So many young people, teachers and parents have contacted me to express their shock & concern about this. 6/7

Families both in Hounslow & across London are already struggling because of covid & the jobs crisis.

Taking away free travel is simply adding another burden & another cost that families cannot afford.

I hope the Government reconsider this decision. 7/7