Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has welcomed the Government’s decision to freeze rail fares, describing the move as a "relief" for local commuters.
The fare freeze follows years of campaigning by the Liberal Democrats, who have included a commitment to halt ticket price rises in their last two general election manifestos.
And they're now urging ministers to go further to make train travel more affordable in the long term.
Commuters travelling between Harrogate and Leeds currently face annual season ticket costs of more than £2,100 - a burden Mr Gordon says has contributed to financial pressure during the ongoing cost of living crisis.
While he said the freeze was a positive step, the MP argued it did not go far enough and called on the Government to introduce a long-term plan to ensure rail travel remains affordable.
Tom Gordon said:
“After years of campaigning, I am relieved the Government has listened to our calls and finally frozen rail fares but unfortunately this is simply too little too late.
“Residents in Harrogate are currently coughing up hundreds every month on their commute. In the midst of a cost of living crisis, no-one should need to surrender so much of their hard-earned paycheck for a basic commute.
“That is why ahead of this week’s Budget, I am calling on the Government to deliver on a long-term plan to create a reliable, affordable railway system that works for everyone.”
The Government is expected to outline its transport funding priorities in the upcoming Budget.
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