Overview

This bill mandates that train companies in England, Wales, and Scotland must prioritize offering customers the cheapest available fare. The bill outlines the creation of regulations to define "cheapest available fare," ensure refunds for non-compliance, and establish penalties for companies violating the regulations. The Office of Rail Regulation will monitor compliance.

Description

This bill requires the Secretary of State to create regulations compelling train companies to present the lowest available fare as the initial option to customers. These regulations will:

• Define "cheapest available fare."
• Guarantee a fare difference refund if the cheapest option isn't initially offered.
• Implement penalties for non-compliant train companies.
• Require annual compliance reports from the Office of Rail Regulator.

The regulations must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before implementation. The Act will come into effect two months after its passage and applies to England, Wales, and Scotland.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, there will be costs associated with creating and enforcing the regulations, monitoring compliance through the Office of Rail Regulator, and potentially processing refunds. The overall financial impact remains to be determined.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily impacts:

• Train Passengers: Potentially benefit from consistently being offered the lowest fares.
• Train Companies: Will face new regulations, potential penalties for non-compliance, and the cost of implementing system changes.
• Office of Rail Regulation: Will be responsible for monitoring compliance and producing annual reports.
• Government: Will bear the costs of regulation, enforcement, and potential litigation.

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