Scottish Government must save rail travellers from shock fare rises

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has today called for the Scottish Government to extend their three-month rail fare freeze for the rest of the year, ahead of the current short freeze expiring next week.

The freeze is set to expire on 31st March but despite the deadline being less than a week away, the Scottish Government is yet to confirm what will happen to fares from 1st April.

ScotRail fares are typically subject to an annual inflation-linked increase which takes effect in January. As part of its response to the cost of living crisis, the Scottish Government promised a freeze lasting just 3 months.

Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

“Rail users are worried they could be hit with shock fare rises in less than a week unless the government leaps into action.

“It’s completely unacceptable that this deadline has been allowed to creep closer and closer without any clarity about the future of fares. I am calling for this freeze to be extended to the end of the year to protect rail users during this cost of living crisis.

“Up until now the Scottish Government’s promises to rail users have been as solid as steam. For instance, last year’s flagship sale cut the price of fewer than 1% of tickets sold. Passengers deserve a concrete date for the removal of peak fares too.

"Now that ScotRail is in public hands we need long-term ticketing solutions to encourage people to rely on rail travel, backed by trains that actually run on time.

“Scottish Liberal Democrats will offer a public transport system that works for all communities, for all ages, and for the climate. That’s why we want to see fares cut, new options for two/three-day a week season tickets and for the government to work with councils to explore new lines, particularly in areas where public transport links are poor.”