Unite on Boris Johnson’s plans to increase tube and bus fares in
London
15th October 2009
Commenting on tube and bus fares rises announced today
(Thursday) by mayor of London, Boris Johnson, Unite believes this
is an outrageous decision in the midst of this recession.
The mayor intends to raise tube fares by 3.9 per cent in January
and London bus fares will go up by an astonishing 12.7 per cent at
the same time.
Steve Hart, Unite regional secretary, said: “This is an
outrageous assault on hard-working Londoners. When inflation is
falling, these fare increases will mean a fall in living standards
for public transport users. Fares should be frozen in the midst of
this unprecedented recession.
“This represents the end to the low fare policy in London which
has reduced congestion, increased bus usage by 6 per cent a year
and met climate change objectives.
“These fare rises will only increase congestion where more and
more people will take to cars to avoid paying such extortionate
fares on London’s public transport.
“Freezing these rises is of major importance for our city, our
quality of life, for climate change and social inclusion. Boris
Johnson has also said he will end the western extension congestion
charge and has cancelled the £25 gas guzzler charge. He also
opposes the 50p tax on the highest earners. The mayor wants to
support the super-rich and leave the vulnerable to struggle.
“The most powerful Tory in Britain has let the cat out of the
bag. We have this shambles where the rich are given this great city
as their plaything while the rest of us pay the price.”
ENDS
For further information please contact Ashraf Choudhury in the
Unite press office on 020 7420 8914 or 07980 224761.
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