Lib Dem manifesto targets diesel cars

The Liberal Democrats have put forward proposals to ban the sale of diesel cars and small vans in the UK by 2025, among the measures outlined in the Party’s General Election manifesto aimed at tackling air pollution.

The Party’s 2017 manifesto, which is being launched in London later today (17 May) also outlines the Lib Dems’ plan to extend ultra-low-emission zones, as planned for London, to 10 towns and cities across the country.

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron. (Picture: Martin Hoscik/Shutterstock.com)

The manifesto states: “Air pollution in the UK is a killer. It contributes to 40,000 premature deaths a year and costs the NHS £15 billion. This year, London exceeded its annual air pollution target in just five days. The government has failed time and again to comply with EU limits on pollution.

“That’s why the Liberal Democrats will pass a Green Transport Act, introduce an Air Quality Plan to reduce air pollution and protect UK citizens, and support the manufacture of low-emission and electric vehicles, generating jobs and exports.”

Diesel

According to the manifesto, the plan would include a diesel scrappage scheme and ban on the sale of diesel cars and small vans in the UK by 2025.

The manifesto also states that all private hire vehicles and diesel buses licensed to operate in urban areas to run on ultra-low-emission or zero-emission fuels within five years.

It adds: “We will also reform vehicle taxation to encourage sales of electric and low-emission vehicles and develop electric vehicle infrastructure including universal charging points.”

Manifesto

Among the wider policies outlined in the manifesto is the promise of a second referendum on EU membership, legalisation of cannabis and reinstatement of housing benefit for 18-21 year olds.

Ahead of the manifesto launch in east London later today, Tim Farron, Leader of the Liberal Democrats said: “We want to give all our children a brighter future in a fairer Britain where people are decent to each other, with good schools and hospitals, a clean environment and an innovative economy. Not Theresa May’s cold, mean-spirited Britain.

“This election is about your choice over your future. A vote for the Liberal Democrats can change Britain’s future.”