The Liberal Democrats have called on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to extend railcard discounts to passengers aged 31 and over, arguing that current support leaves older commuters at a disadvantage. Adam Dance, a Liberal Democrat spokesperson, told the Press Association that “there is a real gap in the support available” for this age group, as existing railcards primarily benefit younger travellers.
Current railcard options and the gap for over-30s
Various railcards are currently available for passengers aged between 16 and 30, but discounts for those aged 31 and over are limited. This means that once commuters pass their 30th birthday, they face higher rail fares without the same level of financial relief offered to younger passengers.
Mr Dance highlighted the disparity, stating: “Rail travel is simply too expensive for too many people and once you turn 31 there is a real gap in the support available.” He added that he welcomes any serious proposals to bring down fares, including those being discussed by Mr Burnham, but stressed the need for national action.
National action and regional disparities
Mr Dance called on the Government to look seriously at extending railcard discounts so that affordable rail travel is available to people of all ages and in every part of the country. He pointed out that the Network Railcard helps some passengers but is not available across much of the West Country, saying: “People in Somerset should not have to pay more just because of where they live.”
Zoe Billingham, director of the IPPR North think tank, echoed these concerns, noting that the Network Railcard offers discounted off-peak travel for the South East of England only. She said: “The North has suffered the double blow of unreliable train services on Victorian infrastructure whilst paying full fares.” She added that IPPR North would welcome a review of how a railcard scheme could be applied in the North and other regions outside the South East to help reduce the cost of living and end “historic southern exceptionalism”.
Government response and ongoing measures
A Department for Transport spokesperson said the Government is committed to making transport affordable for everyone, citing recent changes to the 16-17 Saver railcard and the freezing of regulated rail fares for the first time in 30 years. The spokesperson added that making travel fairer and more affordable is central to the vision for Great British Railways, with digital pay-as-you-go trials being expanded to make tap-in, tap-out travel easier and more convenient.
Mr Burnham, who also serves as Prime Minister, is considering ways to lower rail fares more widely, with discussions in Whitehall at a “very early stage”. The Government’s focus remains on delivering simpler fares and putting passengers first, creating a railway that is easier to use, better value for money, and focused on meeting the everyday needs of the people who rely on it.
