Following yesterday’s news that Britain’s participation in the scheme would ditch the pass from January next year, SNP MEP Alyn Smith challenged operators to think again and the UK government to intervene.
 
Despite claiming yesterday that finding a solution “was not possible”, the Rail Delivery Group today announced they had reached an agreement and will be remaining part of the Interrail and Eurail schemes – pointing to the “strong reaction” from politicians and the public as reason behind the U-turn.
 
Commenting, Alyn Smith MEP said:
 
“Countless young people have benefited from the freedom of Interrail over the past 50 years – travelling to new countries, learning about new cultures and often building lasting friendships.
 
“Yesterday’s news was incredibly disappointing and the public backlash told its own story.
 
“The swift turnaround from the rail companies is a victory for common sense.
 
“I’m delighted that future generations across Europe will continue to have these opportunities to travel cheaply throughout the UK and the continent.  
 
“But there’s more to do. If we leave the EU, young people’s chances to live and study abroad will be limited – another good reason to fight to stop Brexit and the considerable damage it will do.”