On average, in England, has coucil tax increased to pay for free bus travel for the over 60's?

Well, council tax has increased over the years by more than the rate of inflation, and clearly some of that money is being spent on free bus travel for OAPs. Also, the cost of providing this service is increasing because as people live to be older, then there are more people that are entitled to it. So that's quite a random question, but I would say yes.

Sorry judi - you're in Utopia! Councils DO have to pay for free bus passes - the bus companies intend to make a profit and have no obligation or wish to run a charitable service, or to price fare-paying users out of the market.

However, the amount by which councils can raise their council tax for all purposes is capped by the government. This means that the extra cost of free bus passes (and council accommodation for low-paid and out-of-work immigrants from elsewhere in the EU) has largely got to be paid for out of the existing council tax "take", and the only way these extra costs can be met is by cutting back on other services and expenditure.

No, I think the free fares are paid for by the increase of other fares. Councils don't run the bus companies . Council tax doesn't have to do with travel except for the limo's that the councilors and mayors ride about in.

No.

It has increased to pay for councillors rapidly growing expenses.

yes.

nono.