Almost 9,500 Londoners die prematurely each year as a result of air pollution in the capital new figures from Kings College London have shown. Local London Assembly Member Murad Qureshi AM said that the research demonstrates how bad air quality in London had become and called on the Mayor to finally get “get serious” about tackling air pollution.
Mr Qureshi said that the Mayor needed to take tangible steps to improve London’s air quality including allowing London boroughs to opt into the new ultra-low emissions zone which will charge the worst polluting cars for entering central London from 2020.
London-wide Assembly Member Murad Qureshi said: “This research demonstrates that air pollution is one of the most serious public health emergencies facing London. Despite almost 9,500 Londoners dying every year, the Mayor has dithered and delayed when it comes to tackling our toxic air.
“It’s time for the Mayor to get serious about air quality, that means expanding the proposed ultra-low emissions zone and allowing London boroughs to opt in should they wish. It should be an indisputable right of residents to breathe clean air, not an optional extra as the Mayor is currently treating it.”
ENDS
Notes - Murad Qureshi is a Londonwide Assembly Member - The research by King’s College London is available here.
For more information please contact London Assembly Labour Group press officer, Alison Orlandi, on 020 7983 4952 or 07795 616832. Number not for publication.