Caroline Lucas – 2015 Parliamentary Question to the Department for Transport

The below Parliamentary question was asked by Caroline Lucas on 2015-12-10.

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what representations he has received on extension of the Unizone reduced fares rail scheme to the University of Brighton’s Hastings campus; if he will provide funding to allow that extension to be implemented immediately; and if he will make a statement.

Claire Perry

I have received two representations on this matter from Rt Hon and Noble members and two from members of the public in the last 12 months.

Department for Transport officials have been discussing with GTR the feasibility of extending the Unizone product scope to encompass Hastings, requesting that GTR produce a business case. I understand that GTR are consulting with the University of Brighton and Local Authorities to see if they would be minded to support the initiative and to help keep the Unizone fare low. GTR are also looking at how they can use their ‘Key’ smartcard product to provide a better passenger experience for the user of the Unizone product.