Cable Questions Minister over Congestion Charge Exemptions

12.00.00am GMT Tue 4th Mar 2003

In Transport Questions today (Tuesday) MP Vincent Cable tackled the Transport Minister about the Mayor's lack of flexibility in granting exemptions from the charge.

Vincent Cable said: "There is little doubt that the charge has been a success, to date, in discouraging cars from entering central London and reducing congestion. To this extent I welcome it. But there is a feeling of rough justice amongst individuals who have been denied exemptions."

" "

"These include disabled people like Thalidomide victims - 150 have been refused a badge because they can walk and use special vehicles, though they have serious problems using public transport; groups like the Macmillan Nurses attending to sick patients; and small businesses providing essential services."

Vincent Cable said: "Now that the charge scheme is up and running and the Mayor has been vindicated, it is time to sort out the many aspects of the scheme that are unfair".