Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed a new rail passenger rule as he steps down as Prime Minister. The Labour Party leader announced a freeze on rail fares, marking the first such freeze since the 1990s, aimed at making train travel more affordable for millions of passengers.
Starmer's Departure and Fare Freeze Announcement
Sir Keir stepped down on Monday after being informed that his MPs and Cabinet would no longer support him. He is expected to be replaced by Andy Burnham. In a government press release on Thursday, Starmer championed his record, stating that passengers across the country will benefit from cheaper rail fares as a result of his actions.
Starmer said: “The cost of living isn’t just about paying the bills, it’s about being able to afford the moments that matter with your family. Whether it’s a trip to the cinema, a day out together or family meal, too many parents have had to hold back because of pressure on household budgets - that’s why we’re slashing VAT on family days out this summer.”
Economic Context and Support Measures
Chancellor Rachel Reeves highlighted additional support measures already in place, including freezing fuel duty, reducing energy bills by £117, and freezing prescriptions and rail fares. She said: “We are able do this because we have the right economic plan, resulting in the UK having the fastest growing economy in the G7.”
Starmer emphasised the importance of affordable transport: “Affordable, reliable transport links are the gateway to jobs, school, and opportunities. So it’s not right that passengers are being priced out of the routes they should rely on because of endless hikes. This freeze – the first since the 90s – will put more money in working people’s pockets. By keeping costs down we are making journeys more affordable for millions of people - putting train travel back into the service of passengers, not profits.”
Impact on Commuters and Future Plans
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “Freezing rail fares for the first time in 30 years will help millions of passengers keep more of their hard-earned cash, with commuters on some routes saving more than £300 a year. As we bring the train operating companies into public ownership, and set up Great British Railways, we are determined to build an affordable railway that the public can be proud of and rely on.”
The fare freeze is part of a broader effort to reduce living costs for families, with the government also cutting VAT on family activities. The move has been praised as a significant step towards making rail travel more accessible, though critics question the timing as Starmer leaves office.
