Ultra Low Emission Zones 2023-03-21
2023-03-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Department is queried on the economic impact of Ultra Low Emission Zones, specifically in Greater London.
Whether his Department has made an assessment of the economic impact of ultra low emission zones.
Responsibility for transport and air quality within Greater London is devolved to the Mayor of London and Transport for London via the Greater London Authority Act 1999. It is for the Mayor to assess the economic impact of the proposed expansion of the ULEZ, and to consult properly to ensure that it is not just a tax on the poorest motorists.
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Assessment & feedback
The question was about the department's assessment but instead shifted responsibility to the Mayor of London.
Devolving Responsibility
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Small business owners and residents concerned about the lack of robust process in assessing the economic impact of the proposed ULEZ expansion.
Will my right hon. Friend consider commissioning the Treasury's own independent assessment of the impact of the ULEZ, so that my constituents and local business owners can really understand how it will affect them?
As the Prime Minister said just last week, “the Mayor of London should listen to the voices of commuters, families”—including many of my hon. Friend's constituents—“and small businesses as he inflicts his…tax on them.”—[Official Report, 15 March 2023; Vol. 729, c. 832.] As the House has just heard, our Budget last week supported hard-pressed motorists by cancelling the planned increase of about 11p in fuel duty, saving drivers about £5 billion this year.
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Assessment & feedback
Shifted focus to a recent budget decision regarding fuel duty instead of addressing the ULEZ assessment request.
Mentioning Unrelated Policy Actions
Criticising Mayor'S Approach
Response accuracy