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Train fare increases are always a controversial topic. PA news agency answers 10 key questions about this year's raise. - What happens?
Train fares in England and Wales will increase by up to 5.9% on average from Sunday.
– And Scotland?
ScotRail fares are frozen until the end of March and no decision on future plans has been announced.
– Who determines how much more expensive my train ticket will be?
The cap on regulated price increases is controlled by the governments of the United Kingdom, Scotland and Wales.
– Which entrances are regulated?
Some season tickets, return tickets outside peak hours and flexible tickets to travel in major cities.
– How are increases usually calculated?
They are traditionally tied to the previous July retail price index inflation measure, which in 2022 was 12.3%.
– And this year?
The Westminster Government and the Welsh Government have aligned this year's increases with July's average earnings growth of 5.9%.
– What about unregulated rates?
These fees are expected to increase by a similar amount.
Although the rates are set by the operators, their decisions are heavily influenced by governments after they have assumed financial responsibilities.
- Where does the money go?
Rail Delivery Group says that 98p of every pound spent on train tickets is spent on operating and maintaining services.
– Is there any way to avoid the price increase?
Savvy travelers renewed their subscriptions in the days leading up to the annual increase.
– Any other advice to limit the cost of train travel?
Passengers can save money by obtaining a rail pass, traveling off-peak, and booking in advance, although these options are not available for many routes, especially those taken by commuters.
PA wire
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