Welsh Government Set to Pass Bill Allowing Motorists to Face Pollution Charges

Motorists using the M4 in Wales and several other major roads could in future be subject to pollution charges akin to the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London, following a crucial vote in the Welsh Parliament. The Labour-controlled Welsh government, led by Mark Drakeford, said it had no plans to use the powers. But on Tuesday night the Senedd rejected an amendment by the opposition Conservatives that would have removed the power to bring in the pollution charges. The Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill passed the third stage in the Senedd and, because of Labour’s majority, is likely to become law when the final stage is voted on next week....