WiFi on trains is a must-have, say most business leaders who responded to a Daily Focus survey amid widespread fears the service may be scrapped.
More than 70 per cent answered “Yes” when asked whether an onboard connection is valuable to them and their business.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce raised the alarm after the Department for Transport revealed it is putting WiFi provision under the microscope as part of a cost-cutting exercise.
The DfT claims passenger surveys show the service is low on the list of customer priorities.
However, of 226 people who took part in the Daily Focus reader poll, 160 made it clear they want WiFi to remain part of the travelling experience.
And the Chamber is opposing any move to do away with the facility, which is currently offered free of charge by most rail operators.
The business organisation points out that for many travellers, especially business people, it is vital.
Declan Riddell, Policy Adviser, said: “Further to the Daily Focus article about removal of WiFi on trains, we asked readers to provide their opinions and an overwhelming 71 per cent of respondents said they were opposed to change.
“This clearly contradicts the Department for Transport view about WiFi being ranked as ‘low on passenger priorities’.
“Rail passengers need a reliable and speedy WiFi connection when travelling by train. Trains bring people to and from work but they also move people for work.
“WiFi facilitates a productive journey experience and will help to get more of us choosing a smarter travel choice.”
The DfT has indicated that reforms are essential to ease the taxpayer burden, with the railways currently not financially sustainable.
A spokesperson said: “Passenger surveys consistently show that on-train WiFi is low on their list of priorities, so it is only right we work with operators to review whether the current service delivers the best possible value for money.”
Anthony Smith, Chief Executive of passenger watchdog Passenger Focus, said access to WiFi was something many passengers now expect as standard.
“Given the post-pandemic need to get more passengers back on the train it would be difficult to justify removing something that makes rail more attractive to customers,” he added.
