Rail fares 'should be better structured'

Tuesday, May 11th 2010

Rail passengers in the UK could find they are spending more money on fairs, which is a decision made to increase profits among privatised companies.

According to Richard Hebditch, campaigns director at Campaign for Better Transport, government regulation is allowing too much flexibility to occur.

"Season tickets and walk on fares are regulated by government, but we are concerned that these rates have been allowed to rise above rates of inflation each year," he stated.

Reviewing the way rail fares are structured could put at end to the current situation, Mr Hebditch continued.

Passenger Focus yesterday (May 10th) revealed just 45 per cent of passengers were happy with value for money.

Companies themselves should make cheaper options clearer and encourage people to travel at these times, the company's chief executive Anthony Smith added.

Another change that should be made in the sector is becoming more serious about low-carbon options in public transport, according to Mr Hebditch.