In response to Liberal Democrat proposals on rail fares, Michael Roberts, Chief Executive of the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), said:

“We will consider these proposals as part of the review of fares that we are carrying out to help shape Government thinking following the general election. The pressure on public spending means that ministers will need to take a hard look at funding for rail and future fares policy.

“Fares rose this January by 1.1% - the lowest increase since privatisation and equivalent to a real terms cut. For the vast majority of people travelling by rail, this means their fares have fallen, been frozen or increased below the rate of inflation. The average price of a single journey comes in at just over five pounds.”