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Rail passengers delayed by more than two minutes could be entitled to automatic refunds under a new Government crackdown.

The scheme, which is now being trialled on the C2C line in Essex, would force train companies to automatically pay out using travel smartcards, with travellers entitled to more money for every extra minute their service is delayed.

Ministers believe the ‘pay as you delay’ scheme will offer a fairer deal for rail users and commuters regularly hit by late services.

Speaking to the Daily Mail earlier today, Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “If people are delayed, they should be repaid. I want to end the frustration endured by millions when they are delayed – and then have to jump through hoops to claim compensation. I’ve experienced it myself.”

If implemented across the UK’s rail network, the plans would see compensation paid out if services are two or more minutes late. Passengers would then get an additional 3p per extra minute of delay up to 29 minutes, and 50 per cent of the value of their ticket refunded for delays between 30 and 60 minutes.

Those experiencing delays of an hour or more would receive a full refund.

Commuters using London Bridge station have been plagued by long delays and service cancellations in recent weeks.