Train operator Northern is withdrawing all current prosecutions against passengers reported for using railcard discounts for peak services where the original fare was less than £12.
This follows the case of Sam Williamson, an engineering graduate, who was reported to the operator's debt enforcement and recovery department for using his 16-25 railcard to travel on a service to Manchester.
Mr Williamson was prosecuted for paying £1.90 less than he should have paid, although he admitted his mistake and offered to pay a fine or a new tariff – which sparked widespread criticism towards Northern.
The Department for Transport asked the company to review its ticketing policy to ensure it was clear and fair for passengers and asked it to review the details of these cases.
The terms and conditions of Mr Williamson's rail card specified that the discount was only valid for peak services where the original fare was £12 or more. Yet despite the fine print, he was able to purchase a ticket informing him that he could travel to “any time”.
Northern contacted Mr Williamson, 22, on Friday to inform him his case would be closed after his story was picked up on social media.
The state-owned company has now confirmed it will also review up to 25 historical cases it has pursued since 2020.
The operator said it was working with the government to “simplify its pricing structure”.
“We understand that fares and ticketing across the railway can sometimes be difficult to understand, and we are reviewing our processes to ensure compliance with ticket and railcard terms and conditions,” a statement said.
“In relation to recently reported cases involving the use of the 16-25 railcard with fares under £12 before 10am, we are withdrawing all genuine cases and will also seek to review anyone who has already been prosecuted on this specific question.
“We are actively engaging with government and industry to simplify tariffs to help customers.
“We have removed two cases today and two more are due to be removed at the end of the month and are already in the system.
“We will ensure that anything that is subject to review will not be subject to prosecution.”
