NATIONWIDE CONGESTION CHARGE COULD PENALISE RURAL MOTORISTS

9.00.00am GMT Wed 15th Oct 2003

Following the publication of a report recommending the introduction of a nationwide congestion charge system, Paul Keetch, Lib Dem MP for Hereford, has warned that such a scheme could place an unfair burden on rural residents.

The report, produced by the Institute for Public Policy Research think- tank, suggested that extending London's successful congestion charge scheme across the country could raise cash to invest in public transport.

But the MP warned that a system that simply rewarded low mileage could unfairly hit rural drivers.

"Congestion charging can certainly help reduce traffic in big cities, and has proved a success in London. When people have access to good public transport it is reasonable for them to pay a bit extra if they choose to use their cars. But in rural areas like Herefordshire there sometimes simply isn't a choice.

"Public transport in rural areas is often just not good enough. There are plenty of people in Herefordshire that have no choice other than to use their cars - they shouldn't be penalised for failings in the Government's transport policies.

"A congestion charging scheme might help to reduce traffic across the country, but it must reflect people's need to drive. We have to reduce pollution and we have to reduce traffic, but the best way to do that is to have a safe, reliable and affordable public transport system everywhere, especially in those rural areas where it is currently lacking."