Wolverhampton South West Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Stuart Anderson has welcomed news today that significant progress has been made in discussions between the Government, representatives from the rail industry and football authorities on achieving a fairer deal for football fans when matches are rapidly rescheduled.
Rail Minister Andrew Jones has brought together football authorities, British Transport Police (BTP) and the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), representing train companies and Network Rail, to secure an agreement that will see the Premier League working on a package of measures with the rail industry to improve the railways for all users on match days.
The measures will focus on encouraging more people to travel to football matches by train and ensure that passengers should not have to pay more for their train tickets in the event a match is rescheduled for TV.
Commenting, Stuart Anderson said:“It is fantastic news that the Government is looking at how to make train travel easier and safer for Wolves fans.
“Matches can often be rescheduled at very late notice, so anything that can be done to make ticketing more flexible for fans is hugely welcome. “I look forward to hearing what progress can be made in the coming weeks.”
Rail Minister Andrew Jones said: “Football is all about passionate fans, and the last thing loyal supporters deserve is to pay more when matches are rescheduled at the last minute.
“That’s why I’m delighted that the government has helped secure a vital agreement that will bring together clubs, operators and British Transport Police. Significant changes are now within reach, which can ensure even more people use our railways to get to games and improve the experience for all passengers on match days.
“To drive this forward, I will be meeting with the Premier League and rail industry shortly to ensure our focus is on delivering a safe, secure and fair railway that works for fans, passengers, the clubs and the operators.”
William Bush, Premier League Executive Director, said: “We are working closely with the government on an extensive range of schemes, and we are confident there are some truly transformational projects that we can take forward.
“Both the Premier League and government are committed to working hard for a fairer, affordable, safer deal for football fans. We continue to work with rail industry leaders on proposals and look forward to setting out a joint way forward which will improve the travelling experience for fans on matchdays.”