Sadiq Khan rules out bolstering London Ulez scheme if he wins mayoral election

Sadiq Khan has pledged not to extend the scope of London’s ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) scheme if he returns to the role after May’s election.

In a letter to the Transport for London commissioner, Andy Lord, the capital’s mayor wrote that he had “categorically” ruled out the introduction of a pay-per-mile scheme as well as any tightening of Ulez emissions standards.

He wrote: “There is clearly still more to do to tackle air pollution, and I’m determined to continue leading from the front in London.

Khan adds in the letter that he would focus on other measures to tackle air pollution, including improving walking and cycling routes, making buildings more energy efficient and expanding the network of electric vehicle charging stations.

Susan Hall, the Conservative mayoral candidate, said: “Promises are worthless from the man who has been dishonest with Londoners about his plans to tax drivers.

The Liberal Democrat candidate, Rob Blackie, said: “The Ulez could have been so much more successful if the mayor hadn’t rushed the 2023 extension, giving people in outer London just a few months to adapt.