COMPENSATION FOR BRITAIN'S RAIL PASSENGERS ON THE RIGHT TRACK

5.59.43pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 27th Sep 2005

Britain's rail passengers, who suffer delays, look set to be awarded higher levels of compensation, following a vote in the European Parliament.

Commenting ahead of tomorrow's (Wednesday's) vote on the legislative package aimed at improving the EU's railways, Liberal Democrat MEP, Sharon Bowles heralded the move as a victory for passengers:

"This legislation will ensure that rail passengers get the service they paid for or the compensation they are entitled to.

"A better quality of service will encourage even greater use of our rail networks tackling congestion on the roads and reducing pollution."

Sharon Bowles argued:

"Compensation should be given not just to international rail passengers but also to passengers on domestic journeys, including commuters."

"Those of us frustrated by lost or damaged luggage, delays, missed connections and poor accessibility will be better protected as the regulation insists on EU-wide standards for consumer protection, assistance for persons with restricted mobility and independence, as well as security, safety, and quality of service."

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