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Train passengers to be tempted back with 'travel safe this summer' campaign

Operators move to boost drastically reduced use of public transport amid Covid-19 crisis

Train companies are hoping to encourage commuters back on to public transport with a “travel safe this summer” campaign, as Boris Johnson urges a bigger return to work.

The government is reviewing its guidance, in place since lockdown started, to work from home where possible. The prime minister said last week the public should “go back to work if you can”.

Johnson is expected to set out the next steps in easing the lockdown in a press conference on Friday, where he may also hail the results of the latest stage of the Oxford vaccine trial, which has been tested on rhesus macaque monkeys.

Asked about the trial’s progress on Wednesday, his spokesman said: “While any possible step forwards to find a safe and effective vaccine would be encouraging, you wouldn’t expect me to speculate on results that have not been published yet.”

It is understood that train operating companies are moving to a “travel safe this summer” message, with increased emphasis on handwashing and face masks, which have been compulsory on public transport since 15 June.

The shift would be a first step in boosting use of public transport. Transport for London is running 94% of its services, but with passenger numbers at only about 20% of the levels at the same point in 2019.