Timing wrong to reintroduce charges in London, says BVRLA

The decision to reintroduce emission zone charges in London is badly timed, the BVRLA has argued.

They argue that businesses and families are facing unprecedented levels of financial hardship and the announcement on 18 May to reintroduce penalties for non compliant vehicles from 22 June has come too soon, and also with little notice.
 
Congestion charge may also rise from £11.50 a day to £15 and the hours of operation are being extended to 7am to 10pm, seven days a week, instead of just weekdays.
 
“The timing of this is the issue.” Says BVRLA Chief Executive, Gerry Keaney. “Both central government and local authorities across the UK are currently digging deep to support businesses through this crisis. Now is not the time to hit people with extra costs at short notice.
 
“The Government is looking to industry to kickstart the economy and the decision to reintroduce and increase charges to drivers and fleet operators risks stifling businesses who are doing their best to keep on with the important job of transporting people and goods across the capital.
 
“We would have preferred to have seen a continuation in the suspension of charges to give businesses more time to get on their feet. More notice would have also been welcomed as this will hit commercial vehicle operators particularly hard.”
 
The BVRLA says it will continue to engage with Transport for London to ensure that they understand the valuable role that the rental, leasing and car club sectors can play in achieving a greener transport network.