DARTFORD CROSSING TOLL CHARGE INCREASES

That this House is deeply concerned about Government plans to dramatically increase toll charges for the Dartford Crossing; notes that it was clearly stated on the face of the original Dartford Crossing Bill that toll charges would cease once the capital costs of the crossing had been met, which happened some years ago; believes that politicians and political processes and structures are brought into disrepute when politicians break their promises; is deeply disappointed that the £70 million raised from crossing tolls each year is not spent on improving road infrastructure for local people who mostly pay the toll; believes the toll discriminates against people of Essex and Kent; and therefore urges the Government to withdraw its proposals and review in Parliament the principles of charging a toll on the Dartford Crossing.