Television personality Kirstie Allsopp has ignited a fierce public debate after launching a social media attack on children's author Michael Rosen over his use of a free travel pass for older Londoners.
The X Exchange That Started It All
The row began when Michael Rosen, the 79-year-old writer behind the beloved classic We're Going On A Bear Hunt, posted on X that his Transport for London (TfL) Freedom Pass was not working and he was unable to get a replacement.
Kirstie Allsopp, the 54-year-old host of Location, Location, Location, directly replied to his post with a strong critique. She stated that a successful author like Rosen should not expect to travel for free due to his age.
Allsopp argued, "People have to stop taking things they do not need, it is wrong and it is bankrupting our country."
A Clash of Principles on Public Services
In his defence, Rosen pointed out that he also uses the NHS and that his children attended state schools, framing his Freedom Pass use as part of the social contract. Allsopp countered that this was "not the same" and insisted that accepting free travel was wrong for someone in his position.
The debate escalated as Rosen questioned the logic of her argument, asking, "Which of the state provisions is it ok to use and which not?" He challenged Allsopp to clarify if she also objected to tax relief on charitable donations or other government grants and subsidies.
Allsopp responded by questioning whether Rosen used the pass out of financial necessity, asserting that private healthcare and education cost significantly more than London transport.
What is the Freedom Pass?
According to TfL, the Freedom Pass is available to anyone who lives in a London borough and is either aged over 66 or is disabled.
The pass entitles holders to:
- Free travel on London's buses, trams, and train services, including the Tube.
- Discounts on river boat services and Santander Cycles.
- Free bus travel outside London between 9:30am and 11pm on weekdays, and anytime on weekends and public holidays.
This very public disagreement between two well-known figures has thrust the issue of benefits and concessions for older citizens into the spotlight, raising questions about entitlement, personal responsibility, and the cost of public services.
