One would think that passengers' interests would come first in running a railway.

Not a bit of it. Many commuters in Oxfordshire have had a raw deal since the new timetables came into force this week.

They complain that trains are being axed and others rescheduled, bringing huge inconvenience.

They have been stitched up by the Government and First Great Western.

Not only will they have to adjust their travelling times, but there is a danger that the fewer fast trains will become heavily overcrowded.

Just what is going on on our railways?

The Government tells us to leave our cars at home and travel by public transport.

But then it conspires with the train companies to make life difficult for those who heed the advice.

No doubt the bus companies will be rubbing their hands with glee. It is much cheaper to travel to and from London by coach and you are guaranteed a seat.

Talk about the Government and the railways shooting themselves in the foot.