Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority’s (GMITA) Policy and Resources Committee has welcomed the creation of a discounted System One ticket, provided by Greater Manchester Travelcards Limited, which will provide 28 days’ travel on bus and tram services in the county for just £15.

It will be available exclusively to people participating in the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities’ Future Jobs Fund programme – a £52 million scheme aimed at creating around 8,000 six-month placements in the county over the next 18 months.

The fund will support work experience opportunities for people aged between 18 and 24 who have been out of work for nine to 12 months. The associated System One pass will be available for the duration of the programme.

Mark Threapleton, Chair of Greater Manchester Travelcards Limited, said: “It is essential that practical assistance and support is given to addressing the level of youth unemployment within our region, and we welcome this opportunity to help.

“This is another positive example of how GMTL and GMITA continue to work closely to provide practical ticketing solutions.”

The special pass will only be available from GMPTE Travelshops, to ensure applicants can access the latest travel advice and support when travelling and can easily renew their ticket.

The Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, revealed in a visit to the region that we could be “in the running” to take part.

But the idea has been condemned by the Liberal Democrats’ Bolton West Prospective Parliamentary Candidate, Jackie Pearcey, who said: “All ID cards will do is put a huge amount of data into computer systems which this Government has shown skill in losing.  ID cards will not stop burglaries, carjackings, muggings or even most frauds.  They won’t stop internet crime, thefts or assault.  They won’t stop benefits fraud, as most benefits fraud concerns the amount of benefits that people claim, not who they are. ”

“In fact, all such a pilot scheme will do is cost the citizens of Greater Manchester and leave us open to every petty official demanding ID before they provide us with a basic service,” she added.