Rail ticket system has to become easier - MP

EVANS CALLS FOR SIMPLIFIED SYSTEM TO BE INTRODUCED

A LEICESTERSHIRE MP has launched a campaign for simpler rail fares to help making using the train a more attractive option for occasional passengers.

Dr Luke Evans, MP for Bosworth, raised the issue in the House of Commons after being contacted by several constituents who had highlighted the complexity of ticketing options.

Dr Evans asked the Minister of State, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, to take steps to make booking train tickets easier.

Dr Evans said: “Many of my constituents in Hinckley and Bosworth are often confused and frustrated by the ticketing system that we have in this country; and, no doubt, many people in the country are too.

“I wonder if he (the Minister) would agree with me that simplifying rail tickets away from splitting fares, super off-peak and off-peak tickets, may well make things better and make people more likely to consider travelling by rail?”

Hinckley and Bosworth sits between two main lines – the Midland Main Line runs to the east of the constituency, the West Coast Main Line runs to the west.

Dr Evans said: “Rail users in my constituency are fortunate to benefit from great rail connectivity, but the choice of tickets can be daunting, especially for occasional rail users.

“If we want rail to become the default option, especially for people planning

For thousands of residents, rail is often a poor second best to jumping in the car

Dr Luke Evans, Bosworth MP

longer domestic journeys, then we must have a system that is easy to understand and accessible.

“In constituencies like mine, and hundreds more across the country, for thousands of residents rail is often a poor second best to jumping in the car. “To change behaviour people must understand that they can access the cheapest fare for their needs; to deliver that change we have to make the system simpler.” The Campaign for Better Transport, a leading advocacy group which promotes policies for better bus and rail services, agreed with the sentiments.

Its chief executive Darren Shirley said: “The railway is at the heart of many communities connecting people to jobs, education, public services and their friends and family, but rail passengers are tired of confusing fares and paying over the odds. “It’s time for a complete overhaul of the fares system and a fairer way to calculate future levels.

“Only a total reform of the rail fares system can start to restore passengers’ faith and make rail the first choice for more people.”