Rail users have been paying more for less for far too long. It is unacceptable that while fares continue to climb, the quality of our trains remains stuck in the past.

Whether it’s the struggle to find a seat, the lack of working facilities, or the bureaucratic nightmare of claiming a refund, Britain’s broken railways are failing our community. People across Lewes, Seaford, Newhaven, Polegate and local villages are working hard and paying high prices; they deserve a service that actually reflects that investment.

While both the Conservatives and Labour have let rail passengers down, the Liberal Democrats are taking action. Our Rail Passengers’ Charter will ensure our local rail network is a source of pride rather than stress.

The Charter would guarantee customers essential on-board comforts, including high-speed Wi-Fi, charging points, clean and accessible toilets, and ample storage for bicycles and luggage. It also mandates adequate seating for journeys over 30 minutes and refreshments for those over two hours.

Crucially, the Bill would commit Great British Railways (GBR) to ensure passengers receive automatic compensation for delays. This would remove the need for rail users to fill out lengthy forms to receive their entitlement, making the process seamless for travelers.