Train fares will rise by several times the rate of inflation under a series of deals between the Government and rail companies designed to take advantage of record growth in demand for rail travel (link below.)
http://www.rmtbristol.org.uk/2007/06/rail_fares_set_to_rise_several.html#more

The Department for Transport has publicly distanced itself from the increases , claiming that they are a matter for the private train companies. The DfT says that it is only responsible for setting regulated fares , such as season tickets , which it expects to raise by 1 per cent a year above inflation.

The Times has learnt , however, that the DfT made clear to the companies , when they were bidding for the franchises , that they would have to raise unregulated fares to have any chance of winning.

Chris Grayling , the Shadow Transport Secretary, said: “The Government is trying to pass the blame for these fare increases on to the train companies. But they seem to be another form of stealth tax."

“We need a guarantee that all the extra money raised from passengers will be spent on improving services.”