Liberal Democrats pledge to freeze rail fares as it launches its manifesto

The Liberal Democrats will freeze rail fares and simplify the ticketing system if the party wins in the general election on July 4.

Part of the ticketing reform it is planning to implement would be the introduction of an annual pass for all railways.

In keeping with pledges made by both the Conservatives and Labour who have pledged to establish Great British Railways, the Liberal Democrats will also establish a new railway agency which would help bring in wholesale reform of the industry.

The party is also planning on keeping franchises in private hands; however, it promises to be proactive in sanctioning train operators if they fail to meet the standards expected.

The cancellation of HS2 Phase 2 will also be reviewed with the aim of establishing if it can be delivered either through private investment or if a cost-effective solution is viable. Alongside the pledge to build Northern Powerhouse Rail although it hasn’t specified its preferred route.

A ten-year plan for rail electrification has also been pledged which it believes will help increase passenger journeys. It also promises to introduce a national freight strategy including a freight growth target, although the manifesto didn’t specify the target amount.

The party is also aiming to introduce an international rail strategy, with the aim of increasing competition on the Channel Tunnel and HS1 as well as supporting the introduction of new routes.