Regulated rail fares are set to rise by next year, as are the cost of rail cards.

The government’s full fall budget document confirmed these increases, although they were not mentioned by Rachel Reeves – who confirmed another fuel duty freeze and maintaining the existing 5p cut for another 12 months – at the dispatch box.

The Department for Transport is set to receive a £30 billion deal for 2025-26, which will “support the Government’s ambition to improve the performance and reliability of rail services”.

The government said: “Since the pandemic, government subsidies for passenger transport services have increased to make up for the shortfall due to changing travel patterns, in addition to the funding they provide to operate and maintain the rail network. The Government will seek to address this deficit to support services and ensure the railway is able to operate efficiently.

“The Government confirms that the annual cap on regulated rail fares will increase by 4.6% on 2 March 2025, one percentage point above the RPI. This will be the smallest absolute increase in three years.

“Subject to an industry proposal, the Government will also agree to a £5 increase in the price of most rail cards (except the Disabled Rail Card).

“These policies will support the Secretary of State for Transport’s reform plans, which will increase efficiency and reduce costs, while increasing ridership and revenue and improving performance, laying the foundations for the transition to Great Britain. British Railways.

“The Government also recognizes the value that the rail industry brings to the UK and is close to agreeing a rolling stock strategy which will bring stability to the sector.”