Rail regulator launches ticketing market review

John Larkinson, director – economic regulation, ORR said:

Innovation and competition in how tickets are sold benefits passengers. Today we have kicked off the initial phase of a review in which we are asking for views from across the industry, from stakeholders and passengers on how well the market works and what can be done to improve it. 

This work will inform ORR's future consultation on options to improve how tickets are sold to provide a better service for passengers, which, in turn, could benefit the industry.

The review will focus particularly on the industry arrangements and practices with respect to the range and type of ticket products that train companies sell, the sales channels and the third party market for ticket selling.

This year, the regulator will also oversee the development of a code of practice on provision of ticket retail information. The Code will provide clarity on what information passengers can expect from their train companies. This includes information on the different types of fares, any restrictions that apply, and key terms and conditions such as compensation and refund rights. 

Notes to editors

1. ORR is the independent safety and economic regulator for Great Britain's railways. Follow ORR on Twitter @railregulation.
2. As the independent health and safety and economic regulator of the nation's railways, ORR has a range of functions and responsibilities to keep rail markets under review. 
3. The regulator is launching a review of the retail market to consider how current regulation and industry arrangements and practices are facilitating choice and, in particular, promoting investment and innovation that ensures best service for passengers.  
4. This review will not consider fare levels. This is a matter for the Department for Transport.