TRANSPORT chiefs have written to rail firms to demand they introduce flexible season tickets next year.
But Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is facing a standoff with Chancellor Rishi Sunak over the plans, which would have to be subsidised by the Government.
Industry sources say they can only bring in flexi-tickets — which allow commuters to come in two to three times a week — with Whitehall cash.
The Department for Transport wants rail operators to “get it sorted” without a standoff with the Chancellor.
DfT insiders say flexi-tickets will be introduced across England next year, saving commuters hundreds on fares.
But a rail industry source said the letter was “cheeky” as they had put forward flexi-ticket plans last summer.
Our source added: “The Treasury is seeing pounds flying out the door and thinks; do we really want to be putting in place new tickets that would make it easier for people not to go back to the office five days a week?”
A DfT spokesperson said: “We are committed to providing a more flexible, modern ticketing system for passengers.
“That is why we are looking at ways to make this a reality for commuters, including flexible season tickets.
“We’ll set out further details in due course.”
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