Ministers are set to propose reforms to rail fares that will require ticket machines to make passengers aware of the cheapest fare for their journey, it has emerged.
Train operators are likely to be ordered to highlight the lowest price for any journey and face having to redesign ticket machines under plans to stop commuters being ripped off by complex pricing systems.
However the Department for Transport (DfT) proposals may not prevent the fares themselves being simplified.
The Times reported that the DfT will outline reforms at a meeting next month aimed at making buying a rail ticket more transparent.
The move will also cover tickets sold by office staff, the Times said, but will not address the fact that passengers can buy multiple single tickets along one rail route at a cheaper price than a through fare.
A DfT spokesperson was not able to confirm details of the meeting but said: ‘We want a simpler, more modern and passenger-focused fares and ticketing system which takes advantage of all the benefits of new technology.
'Progress has been made, including an announcement earlier this week of £80m to accelerate the roll-out of smart ticketing across the network.
‘Rail passengers must be able to trust that they are getting the best possible deal every time they travel and we are working with industry partners and consumer experts to identify improvements which could be brought in quickly across the network. The results of this project will be announced shortly.’
A spokesman for the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), representing train operators, said: ‘We’re making it easier and quicker for people to pay to travel by train with smarter ticketing, and we want to speed up improvements that will mean simpler, clearer fares that people can trust. That’s why train companies are working collaboratively with the Government, consumer experts and other partners to identify where we can make changes and progress that benefit customers.’
However, in a recent paper published by RDG, its chief executive Paul Plummer pointed out that: ‘Long-established regulations governing rail fares - well-intentioned and designed to protect customers - are now preventing train companies from being able to modernise the system and to give passengers simpler fares which they can trust.’
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
