Drivers Group Slams London’s Biased Transport Consultation

The Association of British Drivers (ABD) is concerned to note that many people are unaware of an important consultation. A long document, the Mayor’s Transport Strategy, was released in October.  Its proposals are far-reaching and, given its significance, ABD feels that the consultation has been severely under-publicised.

ABD London Media Spokesman Brian Mooney remarked: “One reason for this might be that the MTS is seeking approval for the extension of the discredited Congestion Charge to other areas, and even drops a hint about it becoming London-wide.

The consultation leaflet has been anything but impartial, leading readers towards agreeing with a loaded statement supporting ‘fair road pricing’.”

Brian added: “The leaflet makes no attempt at any objective discussion on what might or might not be fair. Nor does it remind the reader that drivers already pay five times over for their emissions and the paltry investment in roads. There is nothing fair about adding to this burden and pricing people off the road.

Instead of proposing more stealth taxes (such as on parking), the Mayor should be giving more back to those who pay for London’s roads. For instance, giving higher priority to fixing London’s crumbling road surfaces, which threaten the safety of car users, cyclists and pedestrians alike”.

ABD urges people who live or work in London to have their say before the consultation ends on 12 January.

ABD is pleased to make available its response on other controversial proposals on www.fairdealabd.org.uk