Anthony Smith, Passenger Focus chief executive, said: “With five out of six passengers telling us that they are satisfied with their journey, the popularity of the railway comes as no surprise. Government and passengers’ ongoing investment has underpinned improvement of the railway in many parts of the country.
“Now industry has to look at how to improve the efficiency of its business to ensure passengers aren’t hit year on year with above inflation fare rises. Also important is long-term government investment and planning to provide longer and more frequent trains to help reduce overcrowding – now and in the future. Passengers shouldn’t be priced off the railway to manage this increased demand on services.”
