South West Trains accused of exploitative abuse
TimesOnline article reporting that Passenger Focus has complained to the ORR about South West Trains' planned increase in late-morning off-peak walk-on fares. The complainants argue that this amounts to monopoly abuse. The company claims that this is justified as a way of raising money to cover its franchise premium commitments and is also part of a change in the structure of charges to reduce late-morning overcrowding. See also the Passenger Focus press notice.
In an briefing note in 2006, ORR has cast doubt on the effectiveness of competition law as a constraint on fares increases.
Comment: See South West Trains fares increases | viewpoint: Franck.
Update, 30 May 2007: ORR rejection of the complaint.
For further information or advice please contact Franck Latrémolière.
Filed under Article 82, ORR, Rail & bus.
