TSSA statement on fare dodging on the Transport for London network

The Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association has consistently called for properly trained and fully resourced personnel, both British Transport Police and London Underground revenue control teams, to deal with fare evasion in a way that is effective, lawful and safe. The recent actions of a Conservative MP, who chose to take matters into his own hands on public transport, starkly illustrate the real risks of individuals engaging in vigilante style behaviour.

This incident was not only inappropriate but also potentially dangerous for passengers, staff and the individual involved. Fare evasion is a serious issue, but it must be tackled with professional, trained enforcement, not MPs trying to score points or social media clout on their daily commute.

Even more concerning was the MP’s bizarre comment about "weird Turkish barbers" – a remark that was both offensive and completely irrelevant. It undermines the seriousness of the issue and casts serious doubt on his judgment and professionalism.

We’ve long said that if ministers are truly serious about tackling fare dodging, they need to invest in the staff and infrastructure that can do so properly. That means more funding for British Transport Police, more London Underground revenue control teams on the ground, and a serious strategy that addresses the root causes of fare evasion, not posturing and performative stunts.