Moderator note: Split from https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/failed-to-pay-fare.211352/
There needs to be a consistency of approach, you can either buy a ticket onboard or you can't. It shouldnt matter what member of staff you come across, they should all either offer to sell a ticket or all take details for follow up.
The problem in my mind is that its not black and white. The OP says he travels once a fortnight or so and on previous trips he has seen other passengers buy a ticket on a train. He was late so he thought he would buy a ticket on the train, but instead was told he couldn't, his details were taken and he is now waiting in fear of a Court appearance.Unlikely
As far as the railway is concerned, the OP passed up an opportunity to pay. It is black and white. He did not queue at the ticket office, purchase a ticket and get the next train - which he could have done
There needs to be a consistency of approach, you can either buy a ticket onboard or you can't. It shouldnt matter what member of staff you come across, they should all either offer to sell a ticket or all take details for follow up.
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