Question reference: S6W-05826
- Asked by: Alexander Burnett, MSP for Aberdeenshire West, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 25 January 2022
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Current status: Answered by Jenny Gilruth on 7 February 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government for what reason it has asked under-22s who are eligible for the new free bus travel scheme not to apply to the scheme at this time or travel by bus, except for those for whom bus travel is essential, in light of there being no such restrictions on travel for other adults.
Answer
We initially asked that only those with an essential need to travel by bus should apply due to the high rates of COVID-19 cases. This was intended to help minimise pressure on local councils, also impacted by the current situation with the pandemic, which are responsible for processing applications and responding to enquiries. With restrictions now easing, we are now in a position to encourage all young people to apply.