Former leader of the Conservatives has welcomed progress in discussions about rail discounts for football fans.

Chingford and Woodford MP Iain Duncan Smith is pleased at the progress that has been made in discussions between the Government, rail industry representatives and football authorities on achieving a fairer deal for football fans when matches are rapidly rescheduled.

Rail Minister Andrew Jones has brought together football authorities, British Transport Police and the Rail Delivery Group to secure an agreement that will see the Premier League work on measures with the rail industry to improve the railways for users on match days.

The measures will focus on encouraging more people to travel to football matches by train and ensure that passengers do not pay more for their train travel in the event a match is rescheduled for television.

Mr Duncan Smith said: "It is fantastic news that the Government is looking at how to make train travel easier and safer for football fans.

"Matches can often be rescheduled at very late notice, so anything that can be done to make ticketing more flexible for fans is hugely welcome.

"I look forward to hearing what progress can be made in the coming weeks."