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Written question asked by Jim Cunningham (Labour) on Thursday, 30 March 2017, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 April 2017 (named day). It was answered by John Hayes (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 April 2017 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Diesel Vehicles: Exhaust Emissions

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what recent discussions he has had with the West Midlands Combined Authority on additional toxicity charges for diesel vehicles.

Answer

In order to improve national air quality, the 2015 national air quality plan for nitrogen dioxide introduced the concept of a Clean Air Zone, which defines an area where targeted action is taken to improve air quality, and where resources are prioritised and coordinated in order to deliver improved health benefits and support economic growth in the urban environment.

The 2015 plan named five cities, one of which is Birmingham, that are required to introduce a Clean Air Zone and the Government is currently engaging with the local authority on the scheme’s detailed design.

In light of both updated information on real world emissions from diesel vehicles and the High Court judgement last year, we will be publishing a revised air quality plan for nitrogen dioxide shortly. The consultation will address the measures needed to reduce nitrogen dioxide concentrations.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
70206
Session
2016-17
Subjects
Diesel vehicles Fees and charges Exhaust emissions Pollution control
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk