Labour Councils Pledge to Protect Freedom Pass After Huge Backlash Across Havering

Labour councils across London have committed to defending the Freedom Pass in full after strong opposition to proposals that could have limited pensioners’ travel rights, prompting a united response from Havering’s local leaders and residents. The cross‑party backlash has seen Havering Council declare it will fight any plan to restrict the pass while the Romford Conservatives, led by Romford MP Andrew Rosindell, have also joined forces in vigorous opposition.

As London Councils reviews the future of the Freedom Pass scheme, older residents have expressed deep concern that changes could undermine their independence by limiting free access to transport. The pass is crucial for many pensioners across Havering, enabling travel for healthcare appointments, shopping, family visits and social connections throughout the borough and wider London area.

Cabinet Member Councillor Barry Mugglestone has vowed that Havering will make its stance heard at the citywide level. He told The Havering Daily that he is “totally against any schemes or ideas that the Freedom Pass is reduced to buses only.” He added, “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.”

The Havering Residents Association has echoed that position, making clear it will oppose any alterations to the scheme and emphasising that the borough’s already limited transport links make the full Freedom Pass even more vital for older people.

Romford MP Andrew Rosindell has been a particularly outspoken voice in the campaign, condemning the review and launching a local petition to protect the pass. Rosindell said: “The Freedom Pass makes a real difference to the lives of older residents in my constituency. I fully support this campaign and will continue pressing London Councils to rule out any cuts. Residents have spoken loudly, and their voices must be heard.” He describes the pass as a “lifeline” for pensioners, allowing older people who have paid into the system all their lives to stay active and connected.

Havering’s Reform GLA Member Keith Prince has also voiced strong opposition to the review, criticising proposals he says would reduce the benefits of the Freedom Pass and showing contempt for older Londoners. Prince said: “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.”

Labour councils have now formally committed to opposing any changes that would restrict the Freedom Pass, with London Councils’ Labour Group leader stating that the scheme must be defended and cannot be cut at the expense of older residents. London Mayor Sir  Sadiq  Khan has also backed this position, underlining the pass’s importance in enabling older Londoners to travel, maintain social ties and access essential services.

While no specific changes to the scheme have yet been proposed, the breadth of opposition from across political lines highlights the strength of feeling about the issue among both leaders and residents. Campaigners are urging London Councils to provide firm guarantees that the Freedom Pass will remain unchanged, and the petition continues to gather support as the debate unfolds.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.