OLIVIA Bailey, MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire, has welcomed a move to freeze rising rail fares.
The freeze is the first placed on train fares in three decades, with the government aiming to save commuters hundreds of pounds on some of the busiest routes in the country.
The move was announced ahead of the latest budget, which Chancellor Rachel Reeves is to set out later today (Wednesday, November 26)
It also comes amid wider plans for rail travel in the UK which will see the government bring the rail network back under public ownership, with a view to simplifying and improving services.
The fare freeze will only apply to England, but are said to cover most commuter routes, including season tickets, as well as off-peak returns, flexi tickets, and long-distance journeys around major cities.
The freeze also will not apply to unregulated fares.
In the budget, the government is expected to announce a focus on bringing down waiting lists, reducing national debt through smaller tax rises, and tackling rising cost of living.
Ms Bailey MP said: “This historic freeze will give much-needed breathing space for families in Reading West and Mid Berkshire, with a saving of £340 on an annual season ticket between Reading and London.
“This Labour Government understands the cost pressures working people face. And we also understand that the economy only works when it works for everyone–including making sure it’s affordable for people to travel to work and get where they need to.”
