New Forest councillor renews calls to improve disabled bus passes

Councillor David Harrison welcomed efforts by campaigners and recent action taken by Southampton City Council, which has scrapped time restrictions.

Cllr Harrison said: "I have long believed that disabled people should not be discriminated against by restricting the times that they can use their bus passes.

"I very much support the campaigners who have been working to try and introduce a much fairer system.

"Disabled people have enough to cope with without restrictions on when they can travel, whether it is to get to work, or leisure facilities or even accessing medical appointments."

He shared the story of a visually impaired resident from Marchwood who raised the issue with Hampshire County Council, but said no action was taken despite her testimony.

Councillor Harrison also praised Liberal Democrat MP Tom Gordon, who has secured a Private Members Bill to change the law nationally, with plans to introduce the bill on September 15.