Unit Four - Source A

Main Points:

In a rail fares study: compared services in Great Britain with those in continental Europe. 

• Fares were 50% higher in Britain 
• "Turn up and go" fares to London from elsewhere in the UK cost more than European journeys 
• Annual season tickets for journeys under 25 miles were 88% more expensive than the next most expensive country - France 
• And more than four times pricer than the cheapest country - Italy 
• The rail systems are state owned 
• The number of passengers per train journey kilometre in 2009 was 107 in Britain and 294 in France 
• This was due to French SNCF's high speed system which has a capacity of 500 seats. 
• Anthony Smith (Chief Executive of Passenger Focus) said "This study explains why Britain's [passengers are happy with the quality of services but not the value for money...." 

The study suggested that the Government reconsider its plan to shift the cost of railways from taxpayers to passengers, arguing the policy was "born in very different economic times." 

Links: 

1. http://news.sky.com/story/1032318/rail-fares-anger-as-commuters-face-more-hikes
2. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-20887006