London TravelWatch is demanding better compensation for train users affected by delays.
The watchdog said the impact disruption has on rail users’ “quality of life” is not addressed by current compensation policy.
Chair Stephen Locke has called for change.
“The package on offer from the train companies only applies for season ticket holders who have suffered delays of more than 30 minutes,” he said. “For Londoners who use Oyster or contactless this will be little help.”
The demand follows the watchdog’s criticism of the disruption that Christmas delays brought to London.
One of the operators criticised, Govia Thameslink Railway, had more than 21 per cent of its trains delayed between November and December.
The operator offered an apology and two days of free travel to passengers who were affected.
But the TravelWatch chair said apologies are not enough and more compensation than two days’ travel is needed.
He has proposed compensation payouts be made automatic after delays of 15 minutes.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here