Labour MP’s from across Greater Manchester have written to the Government requesting that they meet with Greater Manchester’s Mayor to discuss the Clean air Zone proposals.

The letter organised by Stockport MP Navendu Mishra,and signed by fourteen of his colleagues asked for the need for meaningful discussins around the issue and while recognising that poor air quality needs tackling,it also says the scheme places too high a financial penalty on business.

They say that since the plan was agreed in July last year, the cost of upgrading a vehicle to conform with the proposd regulations has risen by 60 per cent

Last week Representatives from Greater Manchester’s 10 councils issued a letter to the Environment Secretary requesting he pause second phase of GM Clean Air Zone (CAZ) funding and conducts fundamental government review of vehicle supply chain issues with GM support while confirming that thr first phase of the Clean Air Zone.due to launch in May 2022,should go ahead.

Councillor Andrew Western, Leader of Trafford Council and the city-region’s Clean Air Lead, said: “It’s not right that poor air quality – mostly brought about by polluting vehicles – contributes to 1,200 deaths every year in Greater Manchester alone.

“We want to see this number drop and I am keen to stress that we remain resolutely committed to cleaning up our air without losing a job, a business or putting anyone into hardship.

“We have considered this latest evidence, which is also reflected in the concerns we’ve heard from those business and individuals impacted and who are worried about their ability to upgrade. We need to have the right package of financial support to meet the targets set by government and are open to any solutions that can help us achieve that.

“We stand ready to work with the government on the right solution for our people, our businesses and, more importantly, the health of each and every one of us in Greater Manchester.”

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