Passenger Focus response to the Scottish Government’s announcement on franchising

21 June 2012

Anthony Smith, Passenger Focus chief executive, said: “Passengers will welcome the promise of continued investment that today’s announcements bring, however, they will not want to see improvements put on hold pending new agreements. The sooner money is spent on Scotland’s railways, the sooner passengers will feel the benefits.  The focus has to be put firmly on passenger needs, while ensuring our railway starts to offer value for money for passengers as well as taxpayers.

“Our passenger research in Scotland has found that their priorities are: more punctual and reliable services; better value for money; seating; and effective management of disruption, especially through information to passengers.”

Mr Smith, concluded: “When franchises are being established it is vital that the needs of passengers who use and pay for rail services are placed squarely at the heart of them.”

Notes to editors

1
Please click the link below to view/download the Transport for Scotland’s press release: 

http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/news/rail+improvements+for+north+of+Scotland

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.

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

3.       
For further information please contact:
Dervish Mertcan
Communications Officer
Tel: 0300 123 0847 / 07918 626 045
or e-mail: dervish.mertcan@transportfocus.org.uk