Written question asked by Mike Martin (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 20 January 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 23 January 2025 (named day). It was answered by Simon Lightwood (Labour) on Thursday, 23 January 2025 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Southeastern: Fares

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will hold discussions with Southeastern Rail on the (a) flexibility and (b) affordability of its fares.

Answer: With the expansion of Pay as You Go with contactless, we will give passengers simpler, easier and more flexible ways to travel, and deliver a Transport for London-style “best price guarantee” for most passengers on the day of travel. Whilst it is our ambition through public ownership to deliver a more affordable railway, any long-term changes or concessions made to rail fares policy require balancing against the potential impacts on passengers, taxpayers and the railway. Through future legislation, we will set out the role Great British Railways will have in fares, ticketing, and other operational aspects of the Railway. Fares and ticketing will continue to be the responsibility of train operators until Great British Railways is established.

Secondary information