A FEW weeks ago, I wrote about the perceived unfairness of Northern Rail's penalty fares procedure, which the firm uses when it accuses people of not buying or showing tickets.

I was delighted to read last week that the Government shares my concerns and is launching a review of this questionable system.

What tends to happen is a member of staff collars the passenger, accuses them of doing wrong and notes down their name and address (regardless of any protestations).

A few anxious weeks later, they will get a letter which outlines the allegations — and implies they will end up a certified criminal if they do not play ball. Nice, eh?

While pointing out that train firms lose £240 million annually due to fare dodgers and that ticket-buying passengers foot the bill, the Department for Transport, seems to think this is a bit too strong and is now consulting people on whether to ditch the threat of a criminal record.

It also proposing to introduce a 'stop the clock' mechanism, suspending any payment deadline during an appeal, and there is thought given to ensuring the appeal process is independent and to establishing a second appeal body.

At the moment, Northern Rail decides whether Northern Rail is right or wrong. No surprises who usually wins the battle.

The report says: "This proposal would directly address concerns raised by passenger watchdogs and would prevent inappropriate threats of prosecutions.

"Passengers would be provided with further assurance that their case will be dealt with fairly as references to criminal sanctions would only be raised when appropriate."

On the face of it, these proposals seem very sensible and I would imagine passengers will wholeheartedly welcome them.

You can read the full report at tinyurl.com/penaltyfare and you can respond until April 27 by emailing penaltyfaresconsultation@dft.gsi.gov.uk or by writing to Penalty Fares Consultation Rail Executive, Passenger Services, Department for Transport, 4th Floor, Great Minster House, 33 Horseferry Road, London. SW1P 4DR.