Off-peak train ticket fares pegged

Dec 9 2012

Off-peak train fares in Scotland will rise 1% below inflation from 2016, the Transport Minister has announced.

Keith Brown said the Scottish Government is writing a condition into the contract for the next rail franchise to peg off-peak fares at RPI-1, or 1% below the retail price index measure of inflation.

It follows an announcement last week that peak fares will be capped at RPI in January 2014 and 2015, as long as the annual rate stays below 3.5%.

Mr Brown said: "The Scottish Government recognises the financial pressures being faced by people every day and paying for their commute is part of that.

"We are working hard to do all we can to ease that burden and helping keep rail fares down will not only be easier on the wallet but will also encourage more people to turn away from the ever-rising cost of the car, and let the train take the strain.

"We will ensure that peak fares can't rise above inflation, but today's announcement means we'll ensure off-peak tickets rise by even less. This will ensure an end to the incessant cycle of inflation-busting fares rises.

"I want to encourage greater rail use in the off-peak. I want attractive fares that will encourage commuters, where they can, to switch to off-peak services and better spread the demands on our rail services. I want families to use the train rather than the car for leisure travel. And I want greater use of sustainable travel. We all know it is better for our environment and our general well-being.

"Successful negotiations with First ScotRail have resulted in off-peak fares being frozen from 2013. Provided that RPI remains below 3.5% per annum for the remainder of the franchise, off-peak fares will not increase by a single penny.

"And again these benefits will be delivered at no extra cost to the subsidy. In 2016 off-peak fares will rise by RPI minus 1% or zero, whichever is the lower."

Labour infrastructure spokesman Richard Baker said: "Yet again the promise is 'jam tomorrow' from the SNP with a pledge on fares which will not come into effect until 2016. And yet again it is a pledge someone else will pay for - it is to be met by whoever runs the next franchise and we are not told how it will be funded or what impact it will have on rail services."