Jim Tolson - Press Release
Dunfermline Lib Dems call on First Group to extend cheap rail fares to Scotland
Dunfermline Lib Dems, Willie Rennie and Jim Tolson, called on First Group this week to extend their cheap rail fare deals to Scotland. They were responding to the introduction of the cheap fare promotion, 'First Minute Fares', south of the border.
The promotion by First Great Western, part of the First Group, offers trips from London to Bristol for just £10. Meanwhile, a single from Dunfermline to Aberdeen (a comparable distance) costs £32.10 on First Scot Rail.
Local MP, Willie Rennie, said:
"Many people will be wondering why this excellent promotion is only offered south of the border. Surely if it's good enough for England it's good enough for Scotland.
"We are calling on First Scot Rail to introduce the 'First Minute Fares' promotion in Scotland."
Jim Tolson, Liberal Democrat candidate for the Dunfermline West Scottish Parliamentary seat, said:
"It is unacceptable that journeys of comparable distances cost three times as much in Scotland as in England. I am sure that First Group is not intentionally discriminating against Scottish commuters. They need to demonstrate this by introducing 'First Minute Fares' in Scotland as soon as possible."
ENDS
Notes to Editors
1. Information on 'First minute fares' can be found at www.firstminutefares.co.uk.
2. A journey from London to Bristol on the 1st December would cost £10 on a First Minute Fare ticket. The cheapest ticket from Dunfermline to Aberdeen on the 1 st December is £32.10. Both cities are just over 100 miles from each other.