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Local Transport Bill [HL]

moved Amendment No. 80D: 80D: Clause 100, page 76, line 23, at end insert— ““(2) After subsection (1)(c) insert ““, or (d) vehicle classification and weight thresholds if variable charging is used””.”” The noble Lord said: This matter is related to our last discussion. The Bill makes provision to ensure there is a certain amount of consistency between charging schemes, as we just discussed. Section 172 of the Transport Act 2000 allows the appropriate national authority to make regulations on charging scheme exemptions and the like. I think there is a solid argument for allowing vehicle classification and weight thresholds of vehicles to be regulated nationally. The definition of each vehicle should be harmonised to ensure consistency between charging schemes. There is mention in Section 198 of the Transport Act 2000 of vehicle classifications, but it is unclear what this refers to. This amendment would make it explicit that the appropriate national authority could regulate vehicle classifications nationally. If a scheme is to offer a discount based on vehicle efficiency, type or classification, it is vital that the same definitions are used consistently. As I say, this is very much related to the discussion we have just had. I believe that there are numerous existing definitions used in various pieces of legislation, which only causes confusion. In the case of charging schemes, it is important that drivers are well aware of which category their vehicle falls into when travelling between various pricing schemes, and the costs of entering a particular area’s scheme. This amendment will provide clarity for vehicle drivers and operators if variable charges are introduced. I beg to move.