§ Lord Harris of Greenwichasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are involved in discussions on road pricing with other member states of the European Community, and whether any are contemplating introducing such schemes.
The Minister of State, Department of Transport (The Earl of Caithness)The United Kingdom and other member states are considering proposals submitted by the Commission on the rules which should govern the introduction and maintenance of road tolls and user charges.
Member states have also been discussing the possibility of setting appropriate technical standards for the electronic equipment which may be used for charging.
Motorway tolls are already levied in some member states. We are not aware of firm proposals to introduce congestion charging in urban areas.