Transport Focus comment on first rail fares freeze in 30 years

24 November 2025

Commenting on the announcement of a rail fares freeze ahead of the budget, Alex Robertson, Chief Executive of the independent watchdog, Transport Focus:

“Freezing fares will be extremely welcome news for rail passengers who consistently tell us value for money is their highest priority, alongside trains running on time. It should also make it more attractive for people to use the train more often or for the first time.

“We’ve always recognised there is a difficult balance to strike in how the railway is funded between fares and public subsidy. That makes today’s announcement particularly welcome.”

The freeze will apply to all regulated fares, including seasons, peak returns for commuters and off-peak returns between major cities, benefitting more than a billion passenger journeys across England.