A DEAL between the Scottish Government and bus operators, which maintains free travel for the elderly, has been welcomed by Moray’s MSP.
Richard Lochhead said the agreement would ensure that senior citizens over 60, as well as veterans and people with disabilities, will continue to have free access to buses.
Mr Lochhead said the agreed terms include an immediate £10 million cash injection, through the Bus Service Operators Grant, to provide additional support to bus companies affected by the poor economy.
Mr Lochhead said the deal to secure the future of the national concessionary bus travel scheme was "great news" against a backdrop of widespread cuts.
"This decisive action to ensure operators are supported fairly in a tough economic climate helps people get around and helps businesses deliver a service we can be proud of," he said.
"The situation is challenging, but we are confident this new deal will provide enough respite and some much-needed stability."
