In a U-turn moment that has left some wondering if it was a publicity stunt, Britain’s railways announced they were dropping out of the European railpass programs Interrail and Eurail, and then two days later said they are staying after all.
Interrail allows Europeans (which for the moment include Brits) to buy unlimited travel passes for rail travel in about two dozen countries, while the Eurail program markets to non-Europeans, offering a variety of (more expensive) limited passes.
Revenues from Interrail passes are shared out among the railways. Some press speculation suggested that the withdrawal move had less to do with Brexit (especially since a number of non-EU countries are members of Interrail) than with a desire to sell BritRail passes and retain the revenue.
Britain’s Rail Delivery Group, which manages the country’s train ticket system as well as selling BritRail passes, initially said they were being forced out by Interrail, jointly owned by European railroads. However, Eurail/Interrail said it was Britain’s decision. And it now appears to be Britain’s decision to take heed of the rapid howls of protest.
