ASLEF, the train drivers’ union, has welcomed the government’s decision to freeze rail fares, a move announced by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander. The freeze, which prevents the usual price increases at the start of the New Year, has been praised as a step towards making travel more affordable for commuters and leisure passengers alike.

The union has long campaigned against transport poverty—a situation where people cannot access work, education, or other opportunities because travel costs are too high.

Mick Whelan, ASLEF’s general secretary, said:

“We are pleased that after 14 years of the Tories pricing people off our railways, this Labour government is helping people to commute to work and travel for pleasure. This is the right decision, at the right time, to help passengers be able to afford to make that journey they need to take, and to help grow our railway in this country. Because the railway is Britain’s green alternative—taking cars and lorries off our congested roads and moving people and goods safely around our country in an environmentally friendly way. We want to encourage people onto public transport—onto buses and trains and an integrated transport network—and Heidi’s decision, made in conjunction with Rachel Reeves, is a testament to our lobbying and a vindication of our stand.”

Image: ASLEF