Khan vows to continue expanding Ulez as Starmer pulls back

Sadiq Khan said that when it comes to the climate crisis, «we can't quit.» PA

Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, has vowed to continue his controversial Ulez expansion despite Sir Keir Starmer's apparent slap in the face.

Mr Khan said he would continue plans to expand the ultra-low emission zone after how Sir Keir, leader of the Labor Party, renounced the obligation to roll out similar schemes throughout the country.

Sir Keir's action followed a minor defeat for Labour. by the Conservatives in a by-election in Uxbridge, which many considered a de facto referendum on Oulez. The surprise result prompted the Labor leader to ask Mr Khan to «reflect» on the London expansion.

While he acknowledged that some people have «fears», Mr Khan on Monday insisted on continuing the extension , warning that «we can't quit» when it comes to the climate crisis.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir further distanced himself from the mayor's approach, suggesting that cities consider other options to combat air pollution beyond Ulez-style schemes.

Expanding Ulez

When asked by broadcasters if Labor's policy on clean air zones has changed since After his party lost the vote in Uxbridge, Sir Keir said: “Let me tell you what I want to change: I want clean air. I don't think anyone in this country should breathe dirty air, just as I don't think they should drink dirty water.

«What I don't want is schemes that disproportionately affect people in the midst of a cost of living crisis, so we need to look for options to achieve what we all need to achieve, which is clean air.»

B In a Times Radio interview, Mr Khan was asked if he would really continue with London's clean air scheme, even if it cost him votes.

He said: “Ulez's policies are popular in London. I understand that there are people who are concerned. We try to solve these problems by listening to them.

«I'm going to continue listening to Londoners' concerns, but we can't put things off until later when it comes to a public health or climate emergency.

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The Telegraph reported last week that a statement in support of Ulez-style zones that charge drivers based on the emissions of their vehicles has been dropped from the Labor political agenda.

Similar to London, air purification schemes already exist in Labor-run cities Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle and Bradford.

Dale Vince, donor to Just Stop Oil, who also donated more than £1.5m to the Labor Party, said he was 'disappointed' with the decision. The founder of Ecotricity told TalkTV that both major parties have 'jumped to conclusions' that the outcome of the Uxbridge by-election is linked to Ules expansion.

Sir Keir has previously distanced himself from Mr Vince, and Labor is pushing for it. : «Dale speaks only for himself.»