People shouldn’t be put off travelling by train because tickets are too confusing, but unfortunately, this is often the case.
In their new report, the Campaign for Better Transport has shown how our current ticketing system is full of bizarre rules and inconsistencies that mean passengers aren’t getting value for money. This needs to change.
We need to create an easy-to-use fares and ticketing system that can drive more business onto our railways and make taking the train simpler and more affordable for everyone.
I have written to the Secretary of State for Transport to call for urgent reform to provide a fairer system with simpler ticketing to make booking easier and provide clearer value for passengers.
Amongst other things, I have joined in calling for a ‘Best Price Guarantee’ trademark on all tickets to reassure passengers they are always getting the best value fare for their journey; a government-funded trial of low-cost public transport passes (like in Germany and France); and a Rail Miles frequent traveller scheme which rewards passengers the more they travel by train.
As we encourage more people to use more environmentally friendly forms of transport including trains, it is important that we transform the outdated system that puts many off, restore passenger confidence and guarantee simplicity and affordability
