Boris: the Congestion Charge is a "brutal fine" -- so will he scrap it?

At his London launch today (there have been many) Boris said: "Congestion has gone up 15 per cent in spite of the brutal fines imposed by the Congestion Charge."

This could refer to the fines imposed when motorists fail to pay. Or, as I read it, it could hint at a pretty fundamental disagreement over the principle of congestion charging. The Back Boris website suggests he supports in principle, but wants the system changed:

The Congestion Charge must be reformed. Congestion has now risen above pre-Congestion Charge levels. Ken Livingstone's £25 levy will not improve congestion or emissions and will hit families and small businesses. It is a stick with which to beat motorists, which is why I will not introduce it.

Is this the first hint that he would scrap it as mayor?

Comments

[Dave Hill]

Q: Is this the first hint that he would scrap it as mayor?

A: No. He has talked about "using technology" to prevent it being a one-size-hits-all charge, but he he has praised it in principle. He has effectively said he'll end the western extension, though, because he wants all the toffs who live there to vote for him!