Veterans in Wales to benefit from cheaper rail fares

Chair of the Cross Party Group on the Armed Forces and Cadets, Darren Millar MS, has welcomed confirmation from the Welsh Government that veterans in Wales will be able to benefit from cut-price train travel to help boost job prospects and bring them closer to family and friends.

Available from November 5, 2020, the railcard will extend discounted train travel to military veterans in Wales after the scheme was announced by the UK Government earlier this year.

Welcoming the announcement, Mr Millar said:

“This is absolutely fantastic news for our veterans. We owe it to those who sacrifice so much for our country to provide them with the very best services and support, and this railcard will help veterans greatly.

“Many veterans face difficulty in trying to access employment once they have left their time in the military and this railcard will open up opportunities to them, it will also help strengthen links with friends and family.

“It is great to see both the UK and Welsh Governments working together to deliver for our Armed Forces community.”

Mark Isherwood MS, the Welsh Conservative spokesperson for Armed Forces in Wales and Veterans, said:

“This is great news for veterans in Wales, and I echo Darren’s comments that it’s very welcome to see the government here in Wales working with the UK Government over such an important matter.

“And I’d like to take this opportunity to renew the Welsh Conservatives’ call for an Armed Forces Commissioner for Wales, tasked with providing greater support and improving services in Wales for veterans and those still serving.

“Accountable to the Welsh Parliament, the Commissioner would champion the needs of the Armed Forces and ensure that Wales upholds the Armed Forces Covenant.”

The veteran’s rail card is available for purchase now for journeys taking place from November 5. Full details of the card and how veterans can purchase one are availablehere.