Liz Lynne welcomes new rights for rail passengers

12.00.00am GMT Thu 18th Jan 2007

Liz Lynne, Lib Dem MEP for the West Midlands has today welcomed the European Parliament's vote on a new package for rail passengers' rights. Speaking from the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Liz said:

"The Parliament has stood firm and is calling for this Directive to apply to all rail journeys regardless of whether they are international or not. This means train passengers travelling from Birmingham to London, or Malvern to Stratford would all be eligible for compensation for cancellations, missed connections and lost or damaged luggage.

"So many commuters are put off rail travel at present because of the threat of delays or cancellations. This Directive will ensure a greater quality of service that I hope will encourage more people off the roads, thereby reducing congestion and pollution."

"This package also guarantees that train companies must be able to transport the equipment of disabled people, bicycles, sports equipment and prams, and this is for all types of trains, and for all types of travel."

ENDS