TRAIN VERSUS PLANE CAMPAIGN

That this House is alarmed at the cost of UK train fares which are the highest in Europe; recognises that the Governent regulates 60 per cent. of all train fares and has allowed them to rise one per cent. above inflation every year; believes that fares will rise further while the Government continues to demand greater contributions from paying railway users; notes in contrast that while the Government increases train fares, it gives air transport a £9 billion tax break every year through exemptions in fuel duty; further notes that when people take the train instead of flying, it causes less carbon dioxide emissions, traffic, noise and pollution; congratulates the Campaign for Better Transport's train versus plane campaign; and calls on the Government to freeze rail fares and to introduce a fuel tax on domestic flights that would make it easier for people to switch from plane to train.