An inquiry has revealed that train passengers are facing unfair penalties for minor ticketing errors, often stemming from genuine mistakes.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) reported that Britain’s complex fare system necessitates a halt to disproportionate actions against travelers.
Sam Williamson, 22, faced potential court action (since dropped) for a perceived £1.90 discount error, due to restrictions on his young person’s railcard not applying before 10 am on weekdays outside July and August.
The Rail Delivery Group, representing rail companies, acknowledged the need for greater consistency in fare enforcement, while noting that fare evasion costs the industry £400 million annually.
The ORR inquiry investigated the rail industry’s approach to fare evasion following several prosecutions over small sums. One case, later dismissed, involved a passenger threatened with court action for accidentally selecting a 16-25 railcard discount despite holding a valid 26-30 railcard (both offering identical discounts).
The report highlighted penalties levied against passengers who forgot their railcards, acknowledging the difficulty in distinguishing between genuine mistakes and deliberate underpayment.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy criticized the “ham-fisted prosecutions” of innocent passengers, outlining government plans to simplify ticketing and develop a state-owned operator, Great British Railway, to address fare evasion.
Mr. Williamson described his experience as concerning, highlighting the potential for a criminal record or substantial fines over a minor, easily-misunderstood detail.
He noted the complexity of the system, arguing that the average commuter should not be expected to understand such niche rules.
ORR strategy director Stephanie Tobyn stated that the legal framework is overly complex and favors the industry, leaving innocent passengers vulnerable to disproportionate consequences.
However, she emphasized that fare evasion remains a significant problem requiring robust action against those who deliberately defraud the railway.
The inquiry noted that fare evasion is becoming increasingly prevalent amongst certain passenger groups and more difficult to combat.
Robert Nisbet of the Rail Delivery Group highlighted that fare evasion diverts funds from essential rail improvements. He acknowledged that the industry needs to improve clarity, consistency, and overall approach.
He added: “We don’t always get it right, we acknowledge that, we have to be better.”
Avanti West Coast services through Lockerbie and Carstairs were affected by a fallen tree.
One MP says it means Wales is “being denied hundreds of millions in funding”.
Issues raised by frustrated rail users also include a lack of replacement buses.
The 24-hour walk-outs will take place during Summer Sessions at Bellahouston Park on 21, 25, 27 and 28 June.
Yorkshire businesses and chambers of commerce urge the government to back the proposals.