Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will bring forward legislative proposals to ensure that train operating companies accept cash at (a) catering outlets on trains and (b) ticket purchases at railway stations.

As modern ticketing and payment methods are rolled out more widely, we will continue to ensure that all passengers who need to use cash, or do not have access to a smartphone or the internet, can buy a ticket and have access to help and advice from a trained representative.

When proposing major changes to ticket office opening hours, including closures, operators are required to take into account the adequacy of the proposed alternatives in relation to the needs of all passengers. This includes ensuring that passengers can easily buy the right ticket for the journey they want to make, with consideration of the product range available at the station and what support is available to help with purchase.

Catering arrangements are managed by individual train operators.