The move towards free off-peak travel for disabled people and the elderly in Britain has received a boost, with a second reading heard by MPs.

The concessionary bus travel bill had been through the Lords, has passed its second reading in the Commons and will now be considered by committee.

While pensioners have previously enjoyed concessionary prices for travel in their own council areas, it is hoped that the bill will extend this to enable roving further from home.

Douglas Alexander, the transport secretary, commented: "We want older and disabled people to be able to look beyond their local areas and have free access to local bus services anywhere in England."

Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats have described the bill as a "step in the right direction", although transport spokesman Paul Rowen expressed concern as to the source of funding for the initiative, warning against calling on local councils to carry the cost.