SADIQ Khan's move to extend the scrappage scheme for older cars and vans in the expanded ULEZ zone is welcomed by Hillingdon Council’s Labour group.

However, it insists that doubling of the scheme, using £50m of City Hall reserves, does not go far enough.

Labour in Hillingdon is urging local and national government to stop playing political games with ULEZ and to provide people with financial support to make the change for cleaner air.

The London Mayor's expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone to the borders of Greater London is widely opposed in Hillingdon. It is largely blamed for Labour’s defeat in the recent Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election.

Hillingdon Labour says it has been pressing the Mayor’s office to further expand the scrappage scheme for non-compliant vehicles.

It says it has outlined the circumstances of residents on low incomes, as well as carers, pensioners, businesses and charities unable to upgrade their cars or vans.

Cllr Scott Farley said: “We have been in continuous dialogue with our residents, listening to their concerns and have been working hard with the Mayor’s Office and TfL to ensure [those] views are taken into consideration.

“I am delighted our hard work is paying off.”

Danny Beales, defeated Labour candidate in the by-election, added:  “Throughout 2023, I’ve made the case for more support.

"I again implore MPs to take practical action by giving London equal financial support, as other cities have had, so that grant levels can be increased further.”

Hillingdon Labour says it is also aware that better public transport is needed throughout Hillingdon and will continue to lobby the Mayor to provide alternatives to using a car.