Responding to the news today that the cost of train travel is set to rise by an average of 8% from January 2012, Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas said:

"These rail fare increases are the latest in a series of unfair and unnecessary price hikes to hit Brighton's commuters.

"Rail passengers in this country already pay some of the highest fares in Europe, and under successive governments, we've seen public transport fares increase while services have failed to improve.

"Trains are absolutely crucial to our economy, for creating a greener and more sustainable transport network, and for reducing inequality through improving the mobility of those on lower incomes.

"Yet for many, travelling by train has already become an expensive luxury.

"The Government must urgently recognise that these relentless price hikes are having a serious effect on people's quality of life, and focus investment now to deliver affordable train travel for all."

ENDS