Cutting bus pass benefit for pensioners would impact three in four elderly people Pensioners on higher incomes are still using their passes an average of twice a week, the figures show. Mr Duncan Smith this week said the next generation of retired people will need to save more to make sure they do not have any "extra dependence" on the state beyond their basic pension. Around 80 per cent of pensioners with household incomes ranging between £7,000 and £20,000 a year are taking up the free bus pass, according to the figures, and are using the concession as many as three times every week. The Treasury has denied reports that ministers are considering axing pensioners" benefits including winter fuel allowance, free bus passes, TV licences and eye tests in this Parliament However sources have refused to rule out making a pledge to cut pensioners" benefits in the next Tory manifesto. "We are not looking at any changes," a Treasury insider said. Certainly not in this Parliament. Kenneth Clarke, the Minister without Portfolio, this week said the Tories have been "tied down" by their pledge not to cut pensioners" benefits. Mr Clarke said that the issue would be an "agenda item" when party chiefs are writing the next Tory manifesto.