European MPs to get sharp discount on Fyra high-speed trains

Members of the European parliament are to get hefty discounts when they use the Fyra high-speed train service, the Parool reports on Thursday.

The deal has been agreed between the Dutch and Belgian train operators, the paper says.
The discount means MEPs will pay €54 for a return between Amsterdam and Brussels, half the normal price and about the same as the current fare between the two cities without the high-speed service. MEPs can also claim work-related travel on expenses.
‘Ordinary’ people will be able to buy a return for €50 if they book well in advance, the paper says. However, these cheapest fares sell out quickly.
From December 9, the Fyra will be the only direct service between Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Brussels, much to the anger of passenger and student groups. There will no longer be any direct train service between The Hague and Brussels.
Earlier stories
The Hague makes urgent appeal to keep direct trains to Belgium
Train tickets to Belgium set to soar in price