Transport secretary criticizes Sadiq Khan's focus on fundraising instead of air quality.

author: FutureCar Staff    

Transport Secretary Mark Harper has criticized Sadiq Khan's controversial Ulez expansion, calling it a cash grab from Londoners. Starting today, drivers entering any part of the capital will have to pay a £12.50 Ulez charge daily if their car does not meet emission standards. While the Mayor of London argues that it is necessary to improve air quality and prevent premature deaths, critics argue that it burdens motorists who already face significant costs. Harper acknowledges that the government has considered blocking the expansion but ultimately, it is a decision for Khan.

Harper stated that the Ulez expansion is not primarily about air quality but rather about raising money from hard-pressed Londoners. He expressed the government's lack of support for the scheme but clarified that they do not have the power to block it. Meanwhile, six out of seven neighboring counties have refused to put up Ulez warning signs, potentially leaving some drivers unaware that they are about to enter the Ulez. Drivers who fail to pay the charge will be issued a £180 fine, which can be reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days.

As the Ulez is rolled out across the city, Sadiq Khan emphasized the importance of the scheme in creating a greener and healthier London. He believes that clean air zones like the Ulez are crucial in quickly reducing toxic air and protecting people's health. The expansion of the Ulez has sparked a debate within the Labour Party, with Sir Keir Starmer cautioning against imposing environmental policies that disproportionately impact the most vulnerable.

The Ulez scheme uses cameras to detect non-compliant vehicles and charges drivers accordingly. Previously, it only covered areas within the North and South Circular Roads, but it now includes areas in outer London. Khan has faced criticism for the scheme but has dismissed his critics as conspiracy theorists. He has allocated significant funds to expand a scrappage scheme, allowing individuals, charities, and businesses to contribute towards purchasing a new car if their current one is not compliant.

Despite opposition and acts of vandalism against Ulez cameras, Khan has continued with the expansion. The Metropolitan Police have recorded 288 crimes related to Ulez cameras, including damaged cables, stolen cameras, and obscured devices.

FutureCar Staff