The Transport Secretsry is to launch a review of how train operators tackle suspected fare evasion
The review follows a number of bight profile cases including in Greater Manchester where people were prosecuted after confusion over which fare they should have purchased
Train operators are able to use a variety of methods to ensure customers are paying the correct amount – including, in some cases, prosecuting.
However, reports have emerged of instances where a disproportionate approach might have been taken to those making a genuine mistake.
The Transport Secretary has therefore requested the independent regulator, the Office for Rail and Road (ORR), carry out a review of the issue and assess operators’ enforcement and broader consumer practices in this area, including the use of prosecutions.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said:
Make no mistake, deliberate fare-dodging has no place on our railways and must be tackled, but innocent people shouldn’t feel like a genuine mistake will land them in court.
An independent review is the right course of action, and will help restore passengers’ confidence in the system.
It is clear that ticketing is far too complicated, with a labyrinth of different fares and prices which can be confusing for passengers. That’s why we have committed to the biggest overhaul of our railways in a generation, including simplifying fares to make travelling by train easier.
