ATOC

We can change railways for the better, says ATOC on publication of report on transport overcrowding
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date 15 October 2003
source ATOC
type Press release

Statement by George Muir, ATOC Director General, in response to Transport Committee response on Overcrowding on Public Transport:

"We have long accepted that current levels of overcrowding on certain routes in peak periods are unacceptable. The problem is compounded by the train operators’ success in attracting more passengers onto the railway than at any time since 1946.

"We want our passengers to have a comfortable journey, and we welcome the committee’s view that the problem will not be solved by one part of the industry acting alone.

"Overcrowding must be tackled by a concerted effort involving the TOCs, Network Rail, the Government, Strategic Rail Authority and PTEs. Train operators have invested in the youngest, and arguably the most comfortable, rolling stock fleet in Europe. We look to our colleagues in the industry to work with us to enable trains to provide longer trains and the capacity at platforms where needed. And we look to the Government to work with us on finding new ways to encourage people to use the train outside the daily peak periods.

"Working together, we can change the railways for the better."

FURTHER INFORMATION
Call the ATOC press office on 020 7904 3080

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. ATOC is the voice of the passenger railway – in the media, to government and regulatory bodies and at industry forums
2. ATOC is improving the delivery of National Rail services. Activities managed by ATOC include revenue allocation and settlement, impartial retailing, National Rail Enquiries, Railcard marketing, staff travel arrangements, international products and travel agent licensing.

Railhub Archive ::: 2003-10-15 ATO-001