A DEMAND for safeguards to protect community transport projects has come from West Devon and Torridge MP Geoffrey Cox . The government plans to introduce ?free fare schemes? on local bus services. But there are fears this could mean the end of programmes such as Fare Cars ? a countywide initiative providing a range of daily journeys in rural areas where there are few or no buses. Members of the scheme can book journeys at fixed times, and pay similar rates for the same journey by bus. Fare Cars are used by residents in some of the most remote areas of Devon, mostly as a means of getting to medical appointments and shopping. But the Government?s support of ?free fares? on local buses may mean they will no longer support the scheme. Mr Cox said: ?I am extremely concerned that the frail, elderly and disabled who are not able to use the public transport system will be forced to pay for the service, while the concessionary fare scheme will allow able bodied people to travel by bus for free.? The Fare Car scheme in West Devon and Torridge has shown to be a well used vital resource for infirm and elderly people travelling lengthy distances to a doctor or dentist, and for young people who otherwise would be unable to find travel to work. Mr Cox added: ?I am informed by the Devon County environment director that government financial support has been made available only until the end of April this year. ?It would be a very serious blow to many in remote rural areas who are without transport or access to normal bus services were the Fare Car service to cease. ?I have written to the Minister seeking the Government?s urgent assurance that this will not be the case.?
