Congestion Charging

Part of the debate – in the House of Lords at 2:30 pm on 28 January 2002.

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Photo of Lord Filkin Lord Filkin Government Whip 2:30, 28 January 2002

My Lords, I should be very surprised if some concerns were not expressed about the proposed introduction of congestion charging anywhere in the country because it will clearly have an effect on the cost of travel for some people. On the other hand, the benefits of well-produced schemes should outweigh such concerns. The GLA has no powers in terms of the proposed congestion charging for London, although the mayor, should he decide to introduce it, would at least have to consult with the GLA upon it. The current position is that the mayor has indicated publicly that in the middle of February he will say whether, in the light of his latest consultation, he intends to proceed with the revised scheme as proposed last summer, or to put it off for further consultation or other forms of discussion. My noble friend is right, the revenues from congestion charging—which is where the Government have some locus; they have to approve the spending plans—will be a major source of finance, potentially generating £130 million per year.