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Explained in plain English

Who sets train fares?

Train fares in the UK are a bit of a mixed bag. For most national rail services, the government sets the overall fare structure and caps, but individual train operating companies, often private, decide specific prices within those limits. Local transport, like some tram or bus services, might have fares set by regional authorities or mayors, which could be relevant if Andy Burnham's mayoral experience influences his national transport policy.

Stories that explain this

Faulty air-con leaves train passengers wet with water dripping inside World leaders are watching Andy Burnham as UK's next prime minister

Questions this opens up

Who owns the railways? What is a regulated fare? How do fare zones work?

This explainer came from a news story

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