'We must learn from our European partners' says John Leech MP
10.35.53am GMT Wed 19th Nov 2008
As part of his duties in his role on Parliament's Transport Select Committee, Withington MP John Leech has this week embarked on cross-party visit to Europe to look at how our continental neighbours are dealing with the issue of road pricing.
The four-day visit, which will offer important insights into European transport policymaking, comes at a particularly pertinent time for Mr Leech, with Manchester's congestion charge referendum drawing ever closer.
John Leech said: 'This visit could not come at a more appropriate time as the vote on Manchester's congestion charge approaches. We need to gather as much information and evidence as possible to be able to bring it to the table in the future when formulating proposals such as those being considered at present for Manchester.'
The Transport Select Committee plays a crucial role in the country's transport policymaking, and this visit forms part of its inquiries into taxes and charges incurred by road users and the enforcement activities of the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency. Particular focus will be given to key areas of interest including vehicle inspections, the Netherlands' 'price per kilometre' scheme and the German electronic, GPS-based toll.
John Leech added: 'There is a lot to be learnt from our European partners, and this visit will really help to inform debate and policymaking in the UK in the future.'
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Notes to Editors:
1. John Leech is the Liberal Democrats' Shadow Transport Spokesman
2. The Transport Select Committee visit runs from Monday 17th November - Thursday 20th November inclusive and will be looking at transport policy formulation and implementation in The Hague and Hanover.
3. It will include the following:
i. Visit to the Dutch Ministry of Transport, looking at Road Pricing in the Netherlands
ii. Visit to the ANWB - The Royal Dutch Touring Club (AA/RAC equivalent) to discuss the ANWB's views on road pricing and charging in the Netherlands
iii. Visit to The Hague City Council for a meeting about the role of local authorities in road transport policy and current issues in The Hague.
iv. Visit to Hanover's Traffic Management Centre.
v. A Meeting with Members of the Lower Saxony Committee for Economics, Work and Transport and ministry officials
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