British Labour Party Denies Opposition to Private Cars

Politicians have squeezed motorists with taxes and regulations

A thinktank closely allied with the British Labour Party issued a report last month denying the existence of a war on motorists. Politicians, particularly those on the left, have been increasing taxes and fees on drivers so that the extra money could be spent on public transportation and other non-motoring priorities. The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) argues these increased costs are justified.

"While spending on roads is not commensurate with motoring tax revenue, there is no good policy justification for making these two figures balance: road investment should be justified on grounds of wider transport objectives and needs," the IPPR report claimed.