Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Rail Fares

Thursday 12 March 2020 · 4 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 4 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Rail fares have increased by 40% under the Conservative government.
  • Minister met with TransPennine leadership to address constituent concerns.
  • New ombudsman plans under consideration to address compensation inadequacy.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Zarah Sultana Your Party Coventry South
Transport Climate
Context

Since 2010, rail fares have increased by 40%, impacting affordability for many commuters. The current system is criticised for its environmental impact.

Question

Under the Conservatives, rail fares have rocketed by 40%. An annual season ticket from Coventry to London is now £5,760, to Birmingham it is £1,400 and to Nuneaton it is £1,200. That unfairly puts rail travel beyond the reach of many of my constituents and it discourages green travel. Privatisation has failed, so will the Government bring our railways into public ownership to slash fares and combat the climate emergency?

Answer from Chris Heaton-Harris (Minister of State for Transport)

I am sure the hon. Lady will look forward, as I do, to the issuing of the Williams review, which answers some of the questions she raised, but she should be careful what she wishes for because, today, using a single fare—£7, I believe it is—to go from London to Coventry, a host of Conservative Members are going to campaign in her hyper-marginal seat, at very good value for money.

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Q2 David Mundell Con Dumfries
Transport
Context

Lockerbie station users are dissatisfied with fare increases and poor service from TransPennine.

Question

Lockerbie station constituents are unhappy due to increased fares and poor service; TransPennine has made commitments for improvement; what can the Department ensure these commitments are met?

Answer from Chris Heaton-Harris (Minister of State for Transport)

Met with TransPennine leadership to address concerns; new management at franchise head; working closely with new management to ensure correct train operations and delivery of desired services for constituents.

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Q3 Tim Loughton Con East Worthing and Shoreham
Transport
Context

High rail fares cause significant disruption costs for commuters, Delay Repay does not cover all losses.

Question

Railways have numerous delays and cancellations daily; Delay Repay is insufficient as it only partially covers additional costs like taxis and hotels; will the new ombudsman address this compensation inadequacy?

Answer from Chris Heaton-Harris (Minister of State for Transport)

Acknowledges daily delays and cancellations, disrupting work and school commutes; various plans under consideration including Williams review; will communicate with the hon. Friend on this matter.

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Q4 Lilian Greenwood Lab Nottingham South
Transport
Context

A52 Clifton bridge closure by Highways England makes car journeys difficult for Nottingham residents; need to encourage rail, tram, bus use.

Question

Residents of Nottingham face high rail fares and severe highway disruptions due to A52 bridge closure; city movement is critical during this time; will the Minister meet to discuss supporting Nottingham's efforts in transportation?

Answer from Chris Heaton-Harris (Minister of State for Transport)

Acknowledges valid concerns raised; meeting with an appropriate member of the ministerial team will take place.

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