Passenger Focus responds to the Government’s rail investment announcement

16 July 2012

Anthony Smith, Passenger Focus chief executive, said:

“Passengers will welcome the scale and ambition of this investment. Our research shows that passengers’ main priorities for rail improvement include more trains arriving on time, more and longer trains and more chance of getting a seat – these announcements will help meet these aspirations.

“Value for money remains a concern. Passengers will want to see the Government avoid above-inflation fare increases. These investments must be delivered in a cost-effective way. Also, the work to deliver the new trains, track and equipment must be done in a way that minimise the effect on today’s passengers.”

Notes to editors

  1. Please click the link below to view/download the Government’s “High Level Output Specification” press release:  
    http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20120716a
  2. Passenger Focus is the official, independent consumer organisation representing the interests of rail users nationally and bus, coach and tram users across England outside London. We want to make a difference for rail, bus, coach and tram passengers.
  3. We’ll do this by:
    – providing authoritative advice for industry based on sound research
    – securing improvements to services – both big and small-scale improvements
    – helping passengers with advice and information~
    – campaigning for change
    – acting on rail passenger complaints
  4. For further information please contact:
    Dervish Mertcan
    Communications Officer
    Tel: 0300 123 0847 / 07918 626 045
    or e-mail: dervish.mertcan@transportfocus.org.uk 
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