Rail overcrowding 'getting worse'

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Overcrowding is getting worse on the UK's rail network and fares are rising, a report from a public services' watchdog has warned.

The National Audit Office (NAO) says until new capacity can be added the problem will deteriorate further.

The government has plans for 13,000 new train carriages but they will not all be on the tracks until 2014.

But the NAO says direct government control of the railways has delivered better value for money.

The government took direct control of the railways, including the awarding of train franchises, in 2005.

Since then it has handed out eight contracts for running services, including that now held by First Great Western.

The NAO, which audits most public sector bodies in the UK and produces value for money reports on government policies, said the change had delivered better value for money because taxpayers should end up contributing less to rail services.

The problem now, according to the NAO, is overcrowding and increased prices.

A survey published in July suggested only four out of 10 rail passengers feel they get value for money.

The poll by rail watchdog Passenger Focus also showed satisfaction ratings fell for 13 train companies since spring 2007, rose for seven and stayed the same for one.

However, 80% of the 25,000 people surveyed were satisfied with journey quality, 2% up on 2007's figures.