20 May 2021
Responding to the publication of the much awaited Rail White Paper, London TravelWatch Director Emma Gibson commented: ‘The White Paper presents an opportunity to recognise London’s unique position as the main railway hub in the country with 70% of all journeys either starting, ending or passing through the capital. London’s integrated transport system is a success that is the envy of the rest of the country so we welcome the emphasis on having a single guiding mind, local accountability through devolution and a fares policy that is fair to passengers.
This White paper must be the catalyst for a fairer fares system which takes account of an increasing number of part time commuters and is flexible enough to cope with the new world of work. Commuters returning to the office for a few days a week will expect the fares system to adapt to their changing needs with part time season tickets or carnets which offer similar discounts to traditional season tickets.
We also hope that the new, more joined up approach will go some way towards improving accessibility on the railway.’
