“Hands Off Our Pensioners: Havering Goes to War Over Freedom Pass Cuts”.

Special Report. “For pensioners in Havering, the Freedom Pass is a lifeline. Taking it away would isolate older residents and strip them of their independence“-Andrew Rosindell MP.

Proposals by London Councils to scrap or restrict Freedom Pass access, including the possible removal of Tube and rail travel for older residents, have sparked fierce opposition in Havering. With borough leaders warning that pensioners could be left isolated and cut off, Havering councillors, MPs and community representatives have united to fight any attempt to downgrade or remove this vital lifeline. The Havering Daily can exclusively reveal how local leaders are standing firm against plans they say would have a devastating impact on the borough’s elderly population.

Havering residents do not enjoy the same transport access as many other London boroughs. Areas such as Rainham and Harold Hill already suffer from weaker transport links, making public transport a necessity rather than a convenience. With a higher proportion of older residents than much of the capital, the Freedom Pass is essential for daily life, enabling pensioners to reach shops, medical appointments, family, and vital community services.

Havering councillors have made clear they will stand firm against any move to restrict or remove the Freedom Pass. Councillors have told The Havering Daily they will object to any proposal that removes Tube or rail access for older people. Cabinet Member Councillor Barry Mugglestone has confirmed he will take this opposition directly to London Councils.

“I am totally against any schemes or ideas that the Freedom Pass is reduced to buses only. I will make it very clear at London Councils that Havering is totally against any reduction in the Freedom Pass. The residents of Havering deserve the pass to have freedom to travel on buses and trains. London Councils will get the message loud and clear.”
Councillor Barry Mugglestone.

Havering Residents Association councillors are also not in agreement with the proposals and have stated they will vehemently oppose any changes, arguing that Havering’s weaker transport links make the Freedom Pass even more vital for older residents.

Romford MP Andrew Rosindell has strongly condemned the proposals and has launched a campaign to protect the Freedom Pass for local people.

“Today, the news that London Councils are considering scrapping the Older Person’s Freedom Pass will come as a shock to many, especially to pensioners in Havering, for whom the Freedom Pass is vital to their everyday lives.”

Mr Rosindell made clear that he will fight any attempt to remove the scheme.

“This policy proposal is something that I am completely and resolutely opposed to and will fight against any plan to take the Freedom Pass away from my constituents. Having only recently introduced a Bill to the House of Commons to protect the Freedom Pass for all areas of Greater London and extend it to all boroughs served by Transport for London, it demonstrates how crucial and relevant my legislation is.”

He described the pass as a lifeline for older residents.

“Having worked hard all their lives by paying their taxes, contributing to the economy, and to society, the Freedom Pass offers the opportunity to stay connected and to live active, dignified lives.”

Mr Rosindell also challenged common misconceptions about the scheme.

“Yet, it is often hounded by misunderstanding and misconception. The first being that this is a gift given by the Mayor of London and Transport for London, but it is not. Local people in places like Havering pay for the privilege through their local Councils. The second is that by being under the jurisdiction of the Mayor of London and City Hall we are guaranteed the Freedom Pass. This demonstrates that we are not.”

Calling for urgent action, he urged the Government to intervene.

“Firstly, it must reformulate the local government funding formula, so that areas like Havering get the funding we need and deserve, making damaging decisions such as this a relic of the past. Secondly, the government must untangle the devolutionary mess, thereby restoring transparency and control to local government. Finally, I would like the government to consider supporting my Bill so that the Freedom Pass can never be taken away from the people of Havering or any borough that has chosen to be part of the scheme.”

He ended with a stark warning to London Councils.

“London Councils should immediately dispose of this dreadful proposal, which will spread fear and anger amongst so many older people who depend on using their Freedom Pass and could not afford to lose it.”

Mr Rosindell also confirmed a new local campaign.

“I am also launching a local campaign in Romford and Hornchurch to seek support from local people and a public petition to keep the Freedom Pass and oppose any plans to scrap it. As Romford’s MP, I will fight any such proposal every step of the way.”

Havering’s Reform GLA Member Keith Prince has also spoken out in total opposition to the plans.

“I am appalled by the proposals put forward by Labour led London Councils to reduce the benefits and possibly stop completely the free use of rail for Freedom Pass holders in London. Once again this is an example of Labour’s complete contempt for the elderly. Time and time again, Labour are hitting pensioners the hardest after promising change at the last General Election.”

Across Havering, the message is clear. Cutting Freedom Pass access to buses only or removing rail and Tube travel would isolate older residents, restrict independence, and disproportionately punish boroughs with weaker transport infrastructure. For many pensioners, the Freedom Pass is the difference between staying active in their community and being cut off from everyday life.

Mr Rosindell introduced a Bill to the House of Commons to protect the Freedom Pass for all areas of Greater London and extend it to all boroughs served by Transport for London.

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