Q&A: Rail fare rise

Rail commuters are facing ticket rises of an average of 8% from January next year, following the release of latest inflation figures. But why are they set to increase by so much? And how will the money be used?

Why are rail fares going to rise?

How do the rail fare increases compare to others in recent years?

What will the extra money from fares be spent on?

Many rail users would argue that the UK downturn leaves them with less money to spend.

What is the current level of government subsidies to the railways?

Why are some companies, like Scotrail, not adopting the same changes?