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Rail fares are set to be frozen for the first time in 30 years in a welcome boost for commuters, the Government has announced.

Ministers said the move would save millions of rail travellers hundreds of pounds off season tickets, peak and off-peak returns between major cities including Manchester and the city region's towns.

Commuters on the more expensive routes will save more than £300 a year. The Government said the changes are part of its plans to rebuild a publicly owned Great British Railways that will deliver value for money through bringing rail tickets into the 21st century with tap in tap out and digital ticketing, alongside investing in superfast wifi.

The announcement - set to be made by Rachel Reeves at next week's budget - applies to England and services run

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