MILLIONS more young people will become eligible for cut-price rail travel under plans to be set out by Philip Hammond in the Budget today (22).

The Chancellor will announce proposals for a new discounted railcard for 26 to 30-year-olds as part of the Government's efforts to keep down the cost of living.

It is expected to operate on a similar basis to the 16-25 railcard which has been available in one form or another since 1974.

It currently costs £30 a year and entitles the holder to a third off the normal fare.

Mr Hammond will say ministers are working with industry with a view to launching the new 26-30 card in spring 2018.

The Treasury estimates that an additional 4.5 million young people will become eligible for discounted fares under the scheme.


The Chancellor will also use his Commons statement to announce a review of airline insolvency arrangements following the recent collapse of Monarch Airlines, leaving 110,000 passengers without a flight home.

How will the 26-30 Railcard work? How many cards will be issued? – During the trial, 10,000 will be issued to those who live in the Greater Anglia area.

A wider rollout is expected early next year.

Where can I use it? – Anywhere nationwide. The card will work on all companies.

Will I get a card? No, the discount will be digital and will be accessible via an app.

Can I buy a three-year version? No, the 26-30 railcard will be available in one-year versions only.

Will there be a minimum fare? Yes, sometimes. There will be a £12 minimum fare between 4.30am and 10am Monday to Friday. This will be on any anytime and off-peak single or return tickets.

What’s the discount? Holders will receive a third off of many fares including on any standard anytime, advance, and off-peak fares. Holders in London will get a third off off-peak fares, and there will be a daily cap on off-peak Oyster card usage.