Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, has today launched a petition calling on the Government to guarantee the Veterans Railcard and HM Forces Railcard in law, warning that without statutory protection these vital discounts could be removed in the future.
The petition follows a debate in Parliament on the Government’s Railways Bill, which will restructure and renationalise the railway network. While the Bill explicitly protects rail discounts for other passengers, it does not currently guarantee railcards for veterans or serving members of the armed forces on the face of the legislation.
The Veterans Railcard was introduced under the last Conservative government following work led by Johnny Mercer, former Minister for Defence People and Veterans. Launched in 2020, the scheme provides eligible UK veterans with one-third off most rail fares across Great Britain. The HM Forces Railcard offers similar discounts to serving personnel and their families.
During the Bill’s Committee stage, Conservative MPs tabled amendments and forced ten votes aimed at securing legal protection for both the Veterans Railcard and the HM Forces Railcard.
These proposals were opposed and voted down by Labour MPs, leaving the future of the railcards dependent on Government assurances rather than statute.
Speaking after the vote, Miss Smith said:
“When it comes to something as important as support for veterans and serving personnel, words aren’t enough. If the Government believes that veterans and our Armed Forces matter, they should do the right thing and support them in this small but significant way.”
Speaking of the launch of her petition Miss. Smith also said:
“This petition is about urging the Government to protect these benefits for the long term and recognising the service and sacrifice of the armed forces community.”
Miss. Smith is urging constituents and members of the public to sign the petition to show their support for keeping these vital railcards protected in legislation as the Railways Bill continues its passage through Parliament. The link to the petition can be found here: www.rebecca-smith.org.uk/campaigns/sign-my-petition-guarantee-veterans-railcard-and-armed-forces-railcard
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