MP backs campaign for fair deal for drivers of diesel vehicles

MP backs campaign for fair deal for drivers of diesel vehicles

Gordon Henderson MP is backing a campaign to make sure drivers of diesel vehicles get a fair deal – not higher taxes.

There are fears local authorities will copy a revenue raising scheme proposed by Westminster City Council to charge diesel vehicles 50% more to park.

A group of MPs, including Mr Henderson, signed a letter to Chancellor Philip Hammond saying there are better ways of tackling air pollution that do not punish drivers.

The letter sent by Dover MP Charlie Elphicke, chair of the FairFuelUK parliamentary group, calls for a fair replacement scheme that encourages the adoption of electric cars.

It argues that local transport authorities should be required to tackle highly polluting buses and taxis.

The MPs suggest the Government should support drivers in places like Sittingbourne and Sheppey to be part of the change to cleaner fuels and a more successful, greener economy.

Mr Henderson said: “It’s clear older diesel engine vehicles are polluting and action is needed to make sure we have clean air in places like Sittingbourne and Sheppey.

“Yet demonising drivers of diesel cars by hitting them with higher taxes or parking charges is not the answer. It smacks of opportunistic greed and turning motorists into cash cows.

“That’s why I’m backing this campaign – to get a fairer deal for drivers.”