The Mayor has launched new campaign encouraging Londoners to turn off their engines when their vehicle is stationary for more than a minute. However, TfL will not be enforcing this which means the campaign is “just hot air.”
Local authorities are authorised under the Road Traffic (Vehicle Emissions) (Fixed Penalty) (England) Regulations 2002 to stop the idling of stationary vehicles. A fine of £20 can be issued to those not in compliance.
Local London Assembly member, John Biggs said: “This is just hot air from the Mayor! If people are breaking the law then TfL should fine them.”
“However, the Mayor has done this before. He banned alcohol on the tube, which is not being enforced and he can provide no information on how much drinking went on before and after the ban.”
“I expect another press release next month saying what a success it has been. Watch this space.”
“It is an important issue and his response is at risk of trivialising it. If it is a serious issue it needs a serious response.”
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Notes
- John Biggs is the London Assembly member for City and East, covering the boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Newham, Barking & Dagenham and the City of London.
- More info can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk/switchoffengine
- The TfL Press release can be found at: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/media/newscentre/22239.aspx