Vote to keep peak rail fares a hammer blow for commuters
The Scottish Parliament’s vote to keep peak rail fares and an above inflation hike is a ‘hammer blow' for commuters who deserve cheaper, accessible travel options, say the Scottish Greens.
The party used opposition debate time for a motion calling for the Scottish Government to halt the inflation-busting rail fare hikes due in April, and to permanently remove peak rail fares.
The SNP and Liberal Democrats joined forces to stop the motion, backing an SNP amendment that blocked it.
Scottish Greens spokesperson for transport Mark Ruskell MSP said:
“I am deeply disappointed that MSP’s across the chamber voted to oppose our motion and to keep these punishing fares in place.
“This is another hammer blow to workers, students and commuters who are already struggling with rising bills in every corner of their lives.
“Fares in Scotland are already among the most expensive in Europe. We badly need action to cut the cost and make rail travel more affordable for all.
“We need to stop financially penalising people who have no say in the times they have to catch the train.
“ScotRail is publicly owned. We need to use that control to build a modern green railway and encourage people to leave their cars at home.
“If we are serious about cutting emissions then we need to boost public transport, and rail is a crucial part of that.
“Travelling by car should never seem like the only option available, because it costs both people and planet in the long run.”