Talking Point: Is cleaner air in London worth higher driving costs?

Khan has vowed to become “the greenest mayor London’s ever had.”

(Getty Images)

Sadiq Khan has today pressed ahead with plans to expand the ultra-low emission zone into London’s suburbs.

Almost 140,00 drivers will soon face the daily charge of £12.50 if their vehicle fails to meet exhaust emissions rules, with Khan eager to decrease roadside nitrogen dioxide levels across the capital.

Following his recent re-election, Khan has vowed to become “the greenest mayor London’s ever had.”

Speaking about the decision, he said: “Pollution isn’t just a central London problem, which is why expanding the Ulez later this year will benefit Londoners across the whole of the city and is a crucial step in London’s green recovery.”

But do you think the benefits of cleaner air are worth increased costs for drivers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments for the chance to be featured on the ES website.

Yesterday’s Talking Point: Are you comfortable travelling on the tube after Covid?

Opinion was mixed over tube travel yesterday. Some of you were perfectly comfortable using the Underground - with “shobuseekinglight” saying, “yup, pretty comfy,” and “djsat2” adding: “haha yeah it was filthy before so pretty sure my immune system is awesome after riding that every day for 25 years.”

“Sa_ctuson” and “dianagiw” agreed, on the condition that masks are worn. “Anamrusso” pointed out that she is only comfortable “sometimes, because there are many people without face coverings.”

But many were still very reluctant to use the tube. Cathy Leuchar wasn’t even comfortable travelling before the pandemic, while Sarah Motts and Antonio Silva, among others, were similarly nervous about the prospect.

It seems several of you have already settled on other ways of getting around. “Britishnathalie” said that she “tend[s] to walk everywhere, if too far, I take the bus, making sure I sit by an open window.” Rhodes Contemporary Art, meanwhile, have decided to “get [their] steps in instead,” pointing to the benefits of walking for health.

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