In response to news that rail fares are set to increase by 1.6 per cent in 2021, FSB National Chairman Mike Cherry said:
“Transport is a crucial way to get the economy back up and running in the wake of Covid-19. But such a price hike deters people from stimulating the economy at a time where it needs it the most.
“Times are changing and life will not go back to normal for a long time, so rail companies should learn to adapt. With many employees working from the office a few days a week, rail companies should create a flexible season ticket, valid for a set number of days a week to help ease the burden of rising costs.
“If rail companies do not consider alternative options, they will simply be punishing hardworking employees who have had to survive on a reduced income over the last few months.
“Additionally, people who are unable to work from home, such as key workers, tend to be lower paid so hiking up prices has a disproportionate impact.
“There is also a risk that people could start turning their backs on using the railways and resort to travelling by car, worsening the CO2 reduction efforts.”
Ends
Notes to Editors
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