5. Statement by the Minister for Economy and Transport: Concessionary Travel

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:06 pm on 8 October 2019.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 5:06, 8 October 2019

We are constantly—. Can I thank Janet Finch-Saunders for her questions? We are constantly monitoring the number of applications that are being processed on a daily basis, and that's why we were able to update since the statement was translated. The figure concerning the number of applications that have been dealt with is now over 210,000. When this was translated, I think it was 150,000. It shows huge numbers of applications that are being processed every single day.

About 10,000 applications have been made by paper. In many circumstances, people have been able to print off the application form and then send it into Transport for Wales. In other circumstances, individuals have sought help at libraries. I take the point that the Member raises about libraries in her constituency, and I can assure the Member that a letter has been sent to the local authority with further information and further reminders of the obligations that local authorities have in assisting people in securing the replacement card.

I have to stress that the proposals that we're outlining will not lead us to save a penny. It's about ensuring that we don't leave the programme in a position where it's unsustainable, where it cannot be afforded. And the Member is right, you know, a lot of people were very cynical at the start, thinking that it could never be afforded. Well, we've made it affordable to date, and if we are to continue it into the future, we have to ensure that we can afford it, and that is why we are making the changes that I've outlined today.