Tens of millions of pounds will spent on speeding up internet access on commuter trains across England and Wales.

Passengers on the busiest routes will be able to connect to Wi-Fi which is at least 10 times faster than facilities currently available under proposals estimated to cost around £90 million.

Access to the new services is expected to be free. Commuters on routes into London from Bedford, Brighton, Kent and Portsmouth as well as services into Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield are among those likely to benefit. Trains across the country will be fitted out with new Wi-Fi equipment and it is thought the speedier connections should be available within three or four years.

Part of the cost of funding the upgrade is expected to be drawn from a multimillion-pound penalty imposed on Network Rail for missing punctuality targets.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: “We all know how frustrating it can be to have our phone calls and internet use constantly disrupted by poor signal while travelling on trains. At the moment it happens too often. Passengers expect and deserve better and with these plans, that is what they'll get.”

Minister Kramer said: “'The coalition government is working hard to build a stronger economy and fairer society.Today’s announcement that we are providing free Wi-Fi on trains means people can more easily work and keep up with friends while on journeys.

“As well as steps we have already taken to make train travel as affordable and efficient as possible, we hope free Wi-Fi will encourage even more people to make the greener choice and travel by train.”