Mayor 'should have tested traffic charge'

Ken Livingstone faced criticism from MPs yesterday for introducing Britain's biggest congestion charging scheme without testing it first in a pilot study.

The Commons Transport Select Committee warned there were "clear dangers" in introducing the plan without smaller trials. The MPs said: "It is unfortunate the first scheme of its type to be implemented in the UK is also the largest and does not have the benefit of a pilot study to iron out any teething problems."

A report warned that low- income families could be hardest hit by the charge of £5 on drivers into central London between 7am and 6.30pm. It will begin on 17 February. Gwyneth Dunwoody, the committee's chairwoman, said: "Although we support the Mayor's objectives, we are concerned about the way the scheme is implemented and the systems which support it.

"It could have a disproportionately negative effect on those with low incomes, on public-service workers and on the voluntary sector. The Mayor has admitted the scheme will cause pain: the money from the scheme must be used to benefit those who have to rely on public transport."

The committee acknowledged that the Government was willing to offer support to congestion charging schemes, but criticised ministers for failing to take a lead in promoting schemes. Ms Dunwoody added: "The Government has failed to take a lead."