Scottish fare rise capped at an average 1.9%

This compares with an average increase of 3.5% on regulated fares in England and Wales. Train companies south of the border are also able to use a ‘flex’ rule which means some fares could increase by as much as 5.5% in January 2015.

ScotRail’s peak fares will increase by 2.5% in January 2015, whilst off-peak fares will again be frozen at 2013 prices. This means that four in ten ScotRail journeys will be frozen at the current level.

Mr Brown said:

"Today’s fares announcement shows that Scotland’s rail passengers are getting a better deal when it comes to fares.

"I have negotiated an agreement with ScotRail which means their peak fares will only increase by 2.5%, rather than up to 5.5% in England and Wales.

"I will continue to make sure Scotland’s rail passengers get the best deal possible. The next ScotRail franchise will bear down further on the cost of fares, ensuring they will not rise above inflation, and it will be a condition of the next franchise that regulated off-peak fares will be restricted to 1% below inflation from 2016.

"From January 2016 regulated ScotRail fare increases can be no higher than RPI and off-peak regulated fare increases will be capped at 1% below RPI.

“The Scottish Government is committed to encouraging more people to use the train, whilst reducing the reliance on the car and recognises that prices have to be affordable and fair.”