The railcard will offer an additional 830,000 veterans, who are not covered by existing discounts or railcards, up to one-third off most rail fares from 5 November and will also extend discounted travel to a named companion and up to four dependent children, if travelling with the cardholder.

Greg said: “I believe it is important that our veterans have access to this railcard, supporting their access to vital work prospects and retraining opportunities, and making it easier for former members of the armed forces to stay in touch with friends and relatives. Every part of society should honour the debt we owe those who’ve served our country. I’m proud that the Department for Transport is doing its bit.

This railcard will help open up opportunities to veterans, whether through employment and retraining, or by strengthening links with friends and family. The speed at which plans have been worked up shows how seriously we are taking our commitments to make the UK the best country in the world to be a veteran. The railcard is only the start though. I am clear we need to do more to look after the people who so selflessly put their lives on the line to look after us.”

The money-saving announcement, delivering on a manifesto commitment, forms part of the government’s veterans strategy. This action plan outlines what government is doing to deliver more for our veterans and sets out holistic support for those who served, in areas including community and relationships, employment and skills, health and wellbeing, finance and debt, housing, and contact with the law. The strategy will be coordinated by the recently-established Office for Veterans Affairs.