Rail fares to rise by 1.9 per cent across the UK

Regulated rail fares across the UK are set to rise by 1.9 per cent from January 2017.

The rise will apply to all regulated fare in England and Wales, which includes season fares on most commuter journeys, some off-peak long distance journeys and anytime tickets in major cities.

In Scotland the rise will only apply to regulated peak-time fares, while off peak will rise by 0.9 per cent.

The announcement comes as analysis by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Action for Rail campaign suggests that fares have risen by double the speed of wages over the past five years, with fares rising by 25 per cent while average weekly earnings have only gone up by 12 per cent.

Frances O’Grady, TUC general secretary, said: “Rail passengers are paying more and getting even less. Fares go up while trains remain overcrowded, stations are unstaffed, and rail companies cut the guards who ensure journeys run smoothly and safely.

“Enough is enough. It’s time for rail services to be publicly owned, saving money for passengers and taxpayers alike. Instead of increasing fares and cutting staff, we should be building an accessible, reliable train service that Britain can be proud of.”