Political opinion: Peter Lamb, MP for Crawley, welcomes Labour Government's move to protect veterans' and Armed Forces rail discounts in law

Peter Lamb, MP for Crawley, has welcomed the Labour Government's announcement that rail discounts for veterans and serving Armed Forces personnel will be protected in law for the first time, ensuring that those who have served their country continue to benefit from cheaper rail travel for generations to come.

The Government has tabled an amendment to the Railways Bill that will enshrine the Veterans Railcard and HM Forces Railcard in legislation, providing lasting reassurance to veterans, serving personnel and their families that these important discounts will be maintained.

The Veterans Railcard currently provides a third off most rail fares for cardholders and a named adult companion, alongside a 60% discount for up to four children travelling with them. The HM Forces Railcard also provides discounted travel for serving personnel and eligible family members.

While rail discounts for young people, older passengers and disabled people are already protected in legislation, this announcement will extend statutory protection to the Armed Forces community for the first time. The announcement follows the Government's recent extension of free rail travel over Remembrance weekend to include a bereaved military family member travelling to attend commemorative events.

Previously available to veterans and serving personnel attending Remembrance services, the expanded scheme ensures that travel costs are not a barrier for bereaved families wishing to honour loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Government's amendment will give the Veterans Railcard and HM Forces Railcard statutory protection once the Railways Bill becomes law.

Peter Lamb, MP for Crawley, said: "Our Armed Forces personnel and veterans have made an extraordinary contribution to our country, and it is only right that we recognise their service not just through words, but through meaningful action.

"I'm delighted that as we bring the railways into public ownership and establish Great British Railways, this Labour Government is taking steps to protect their rail discounts in law, giving veterans, serving personnel and their families the reassurance that these benefits will be there for generations to come.

"At a time when we come together to remember those who have served and sacrificed so much for our country, this is another important demonstration of our commitment to the Armed Forces community. Those who have served our country deserve our lasting gratitude and support, and I am proud that this Government is delivering practical measures to recognise their contribution."