To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what discussions he (a) has had and (b) plans to have with the Association of Train Operating Companies on the introduction of railcards for train journeys (i) commencing and (ii) ending outside South East England; what his policy is on railcards; and if he will make a statement. (247999)

The Secretary of State requires franchised train companies to accept the 16 to 25, senior and disabled person's railcards. These offer 34 per cent. off most journeys, though the specific terms vary for each card. He has not had discussions with ATOC on the card described, though officials meet with ATOC on various ticketing issues on a regular basis.