I am delighted that, following a Government intervention, working with TfL and the train operators, the TfL Travelcard has been saved. The unpopular plans had faced broad opposition from passengers, including our own petition and opposition from many local authorities outside London, including Runnymede Borough Council. It is fantastic news that the Government has been able to agree a deal and reverse the Labour Mayor's plans.
In April this year Sadiq Khan, began the process to scrap the travelcard, publishing a limited online engagement exercise. TfL confirmed the decision by the London Mayor in July, despite the significant cost increase this would cause for many rail passengers. The London Mayor had claimed that the cards were no longer affordable due to the poor financial situation the organisation faces.
The plans had been particularly punitive given Sadiq Khan's decision to also increase travel costs for motorists following the expansion of the ULEZ zone earlier this year. I am grateful to everyone who campaigned against these plans, and those who worked to secure the retention of day travelcards.