A coalition of campaigners has launched 'Free Our Buses, Free Our Tubes', demanding all London public transport becomes free to boost the capital's economy and tackle inequality. Trade unions, environmental groups and disability advocates argue scrapping fares would increase business footfall, reduce congestion and improve social equity across the city.
The campaign proposes financing free transport through tourist taxes, business levies or charges on land value increases from new infrastructure projects. Supporters claim economic benefits would outweigh implementation costs, pointing to reduced traffic and increased spending power for Londoners.
Transport for London currently depends heavily on fare revenue to fund operations. In 2022/23, TfL earned £5.1 billion total income, with £3.5 billion from passenger fares. Eliminating this revenue stream would require finding substantial alternative funding to maintain services and planned upgrades across the network.
The Mayor of London's office acknowledged the proposals but highlighted the "considerable financial implications". A spokesperson said TfL's funding model ensures network sustainability, and any fundamental change would need detailed analysis and significant financial backing, likely from central government.
Critics warn of immense costs and potential overcrowding during peak hours without corresponding capacity increases. They question TfL's ability to fund essential infrastructure improvements and maintenance needed for long-term network reliability and expansion.
Luxembourg became the first country to offer free public transport in 2020. However, London's transport system serves millions daily across Tube, bus and rail services, presenting far greater complexity than smaller urban networks that have adopted fare-free models.