Following confirmation of the latest RPI figures by the Office of National Statistics

Humza Yousaf, Minister for Transport and the Islands said:

“The Scottish Government has restricted annual increases in fare costs to ensure Scotland has the lowest price increases in the UK.  At the same time we have introduced a number of initiatives to support passengers including offering a free week’s travel - equal to the cost of a rail fare freeze  - which has been taken up by 90% of season ticket holders.

 “While there has to be an increase in fares to support rail services our actions ensure the annual increase for key fares is never more than inflation and that any increase for off peak fares is always less than inflation. This allows us to continue to invest in improvements, to grow passenger numbers and to ensure rail travel is fair, affordable and an attractive alternative to travelling by car.

 “We want to see more people take the train and our five-year £5 billion investment programme is helping to transform Scotland’s railway to make it fit for the 21st century – with passengers up and down the country set to benefit from new services, more seats and better journey times.”