Railways: Fares

Lord Campbell-Savours Excerpts
Thursday 31st January 2013

(11 years, 3 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Earl Attlee Portrait Earl Attlee
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My noble friend makes an important point. The Government recognise that, for those starting their employment career, being able to travel economically to work is important. My noble friend will be aware that a fares review is currently under way, looking at all aspects of the fares structure.

Lord Campbell-Savours Portrait Lord Campbell-Savours
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My Lords, fares payable on the day of travel are invariably far more expensive than advance travel tickets. On what basis are the European comparisons that the Minister referred to being made: the former or the latter?

Earl Attlee Portrait Earl Attlee
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The noble Lord asks a good question. Just walking up to Euston and buying a ticket is very expensive, and we do not compare well with our continental partners. However, when we look at advanced purchases, we compare quite well. One day, I wanted to go to the NEC to visit the motor show and I could not afford the walk-on fare; it was too expensive for me.