Motion 24
Ending Peak Rail Fares
“That this Congress notes that the removal of peak fares was called for by the rail unions in October 2021 as part of the ‘A vision for Scotland’s Railways’ report and as such we were glad that the Scottish Government saw sense in removing peak fares in October 2023, albeit for a trial period.
“Congress was, however, deeply frustrated and disappointed with the Scottish Government’s decision to reintroduce peak rail fares in September 2024, after it had achieved 7% of the 10% target increase in passengers during the trial.
“Congress believes that peak fares are a stealth tax on workers and that the re-introduction of peak fares hinders the ability to truly achieve modal shift or climate change targets by encouraging private motor vehicle use for commuting.
“Congress believes that the Scottish Government’s decision is shortsighted and could cause lasting damage for confidence in the use of rail for commuting purposes.
“Congress commends the STUC and rail unions for launching the ‘Past its Peak’ campaign in response to the re-introduction of peak fares and was disappointed that the Scottish Budget 2025-2026 did not scrap peak fares, keeping in place a tax on workers who use rail to commute.
“Congress calls on the General Council to reaffirm its support to the Past its Peak Campaign and to continue to lobby the Scottish Government for the removal of peak rail fares.”
Mover: Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers & Firemen
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