Peak rail fare U-turn a huge win for commuters and climate
The SNP’s decision to take forward the Scottish Green policy of a permanent end to peak rail fares is a huge win for commuters and climate, says the Scottish Greens transport spokesperson Mark Ruskell.
The policy was initially secured by the Scottish Greens through budget negotiations in 2023 before being dropped by the SNP in 2024.
In February 2025 the Scottish Greens forced a vote on making the change permanent, which was opposed by the SNP.
Mr Ruskell said:
“This is a very welcome announcement and is a tribute to the work of green campaigners, trade unions and the many people who have urged the SNP to finally end peak fares for good.
“The 12 month pilot that the Scottish Greens secured showed a huge uplift in passenger numbers while saving some rail users hundreds of pounds.
"It is regrettable that the SNP dropped the policy, and it is to their credit that they have listened and brought it back.
“Peak rail fares have always been an unfair tax on workers, students and regular travellers. They penalise people who often have no say on when and where they need to travel.
“This is an important step forward and a huge win for commuters and our climate. If we are to build a people’s railway fit for the future then it must be affordable, accessible and available when people need it.”