An alliance of business organisations and environmental charities has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, urging him to introduce the Mayor of London’s proposals for a national diesel scrappage fund.

Last month Sadiq Khan called on ministers to implement his new plans for a national ‘dirty’ diesel scrappage fund that would financially compensate motorists and enable the government to get a increase air quality.

Diesel cars and vans contribute to London’s air pollution. 

Currently more than 9,000 Londoners die prematurely each year as a result of long-term exposure to air pollution.

Organisations including the Federation of Small Business, London First, Greenpeace and the Licensed Taxi Drivers' Association have expressed their support for the Mayor’s proposals for a national diesel scrappage fund.

In their letter to the Chancellor they said: “We believe the Mayor has adopted a cost-effective approach that minimises risks and simplifies administration for government.

“The Mayor’s proposal seeks to rebalance the financial cost of improving our air away from the individual – unlocking significant emission reductions while reducing the cost for those least able to afford to upgrade their vehicle or change how they drive.

“This will enable the government to have greater confidence that it will fulfil its legal obligation to comply with European legal pollution limits as soon as practically possible.”

Last month, Sadiq Khan delivered a report jointly developed by Transport for London and Cambridge Economic Policy Associates that provides a new framework for a national scrappage fund and modelling which other UK cities could use to produce their own scheme and subsequent share of funding required.

Mr Khan said: “Our filthy air is a national health emergency and it is vital that the Government treat this crisis as seriously as I am doing and introduce measures that will cut air pollution and save lives.

“I am pleased that a broad alliance of business organisations and environmental charities are backing my plans for a national diesel scrappage.

“Now is the time for the Government to take urgent and decisive action to help get the most polluting vehicles off our roads in a fair and reasonable manner.”