We are shocked by the recent announcement from SWT that off-peak passengers will be hit by fare increases just six weeks after the start of the new ten-year South West Trains franchcise.  Off-peak services arriving into London between 10 a.m. and 12 noon will rise by up to 20% with effect from 20 May.  Later off-peak fares will rise by up to 3%.  The increases will be on top of the above-inflation annual rise in January 2007.  The services thought to be affected are those leaving Alton at 08.44, 09.14, 09.44, 10.14 and 10.44.  There was no consultation with ALUA about these fare changes and we are most concerned about the implications on off-peak travellers.  We hope that SWT will at least use its increased income from Alton line passengers to address the urgent need for infrastructure improvements between Alton and Farnham.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Members will have a chance to express their concerns about the fare increases and other matters at the ALUA AGM to be held on Wednesday 16 May at 7.30 p.m. at Alton Assembley Rooms.  Non-members are also welcome.

TICKETLESS TRAVEL AND REVENUE PROTECTION

SWT have informed ALUA that there is to be a more "hard-nosed" policy regarding persons travelling without a ticket. ALUA does not disagree with this in principle as we are all fed up with 'free-loaders' and have been advised that Conductor / Guards are no longer permitted to issue tickets.  Apparently no latitude will be granted, as SWT does not concede that buses can run late or that a myriad of other events might prevent genuine travellers from buying a ticket.  ALUA has urged that Revenue Protection Inspectors use commonsense and tact when enforcing the rules.