Good news in today’s autumn statement that George Osborne is to go slower on raising rail fares, with the projected increase in the New Year pegged at just over 3 per cent. But why should taxpayers subside rail travellers at all, given that only 7 per cent of all passenger journeys in the UK are by rail? The answer must be that the more rail travel is encouraged, then life in this crowed island becomes proportionately more pleasant even for those who never use trains – in terms of reduced pollution, less pressure on the roads and a host of other associated benefits.
About The Author
Michael Williams
Michael Williams is the best-selling author of On the Slow Train, On the Slow Train Again, Steaming to Victory and The Trains Now Departed.