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LEI a big cost for a small gain
Page 32
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YOUR ANALYSIS headed 'A capital idea' (CM 5 April) serves to highlight once again the farcical situation surrounding the London low-emission zone (LEZ).
The Road Haulage Association has strongly opposed the LEZ and has gained support from London boroughs which have come, a little late in the process, to realise the cost it will impose on their own operations, business in general and ratepayers— for minimal benefit.
Two weeks ago the Olympic Delivery Agency became the latest organisation to express concern about the scheme.
Now it seems that Transport for London's own freight team, in place for more than a year, has been unable to have a significant input.The LEZ is, as you rightly state, a political issue; it has little to do with the quality of life in London but it will add much cost.
Meanwhile, London authorities go on failing to fulfil their statutory obligation to ensure adequate freight collection and delivery provision for companies, choosing instead to issue endless unwarranted parking tickets.
London should sort out its legal obligations before burdening the transport industry with unnecessary schemes such as the LEZ.
Jack Semple Director of policy Road Haulage Association
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