Rail passengers get automatic right to switch operators for free when trains are cancelled

‘Commonsense change’ looks to end current confusion and put ‘passengers first, not shareholders’ when services are disrupted

Rail passengers whose trains are cancelled will have the immediate right to travel on other operators’ services to finish their journey without further charge, ministers have announced.

The “commonsense change” will take effect from Sunday 20 September, ending the confusion in Britain where many pre-booked tickets are not valid on other firms’ trains.