MEPs push for rail passengers' rights

12.12.53pm GMT Fri 19th Jan 2007

Sarah always takes the Eurostar to Brussels. New rail passenger rights will apply to journeys within the UK as well as international journeys.

London's Lib Dem Euro-MP Baroness Sarah Ludford today welcomed the European Parliament's vote on a new package to improve rail passengers' rights across Europe.

The new Directive stipulates that in the event that the train operator is responsible for a delay, passengers have the right to compensation, namely 25% of the fare for a delay of 1 hour or more and 50% for a delay of 2 hours or more. MEPs have also pushed for all train companies to be required to provide space for wheelchairs, bicycles, sports equipment and prams.

Commenting, Baroness Ludford said:

"The Parliament has stood firm and is calling for this Directive to apply to all rail journeys regardless of whether they are international or not. This means train passengers travelling from London to Birmingham for example would be eligible for compensation for cancellations, missed connections and lost or damaged luggage."

"At the moment, so many commuters are put off rail travel because of the threat of delays or cancellations. This Directive will ensure a greater quality of service that I hope will encourage more people off the roads, thereby reducing congestion and pollution."

"By providing a guarantee to passengers that train companies will be able to transport wheelchairs, bikes, sports equipment and prams, we are not only opening up train travel to everyone, but also helping to integrate cycling and train travel to make both modes of transport easier to use."

Notes

A copy of the Report can be found at:

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//NONSGML+REPORT+A6-2006-0479+0+DOC+PDF+V0//EN&language=EN

The Directive will now go to the Council of Ministers for the approval of European transport ministers.