Summary: We cannot investigate this complaint about a tram penalty fare because the fine was issued by an Authority that does not provide an administrative function on behalf of the Combined Authority.

The complaint

1. The complainant, Mr X, complains about a penalty fare he received while travelling on a tram.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We cannot investigate complaints about actions which are not the administrative function of a council. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(1) as amended).

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by Mr X and our Assessment Code.

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My assessment

4. A transport authority issued Mr X with a penalty fare while he was travelling on a tram. Mr X appealed but lost. He continues to dispute the fine.

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Final decision

5. We can investigate complaints about an organisation carrying out administrative functions. The transport body, while linked to the Combined Authority, does not provide administrative functions on behalf of that Authority. This means we have no power to investigate the complaint.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman