In Parliament

Newport East MP Raises Issues of Severn Tolls 22 January 2008

MP Calls for Review of Charging on the Severn Bridges

Jessica Morden MP for Newport East asked the Minister for Transport to meet with her to look into charges on the Severn Bridges. She called on the Minister to look at greater discounts for those who live locally and to resolve the issue of not being able to pay by electronic means.

Jessica Morden said "Tolls on the Severn Bridges increased again in the new year. It is now £5.30 for a car, which is a large burden for many of my constituents, particularly commuters. Added to that is the problem of not being able to pay by any modern electronic method; people can pay only by cash or cheque. Will the Minister meet me to discuss reviewing the charges with the operator, so that we can offer better discounts for those who live locally, and to discuss the ongoing issue of the method of payment of the tolls."

Rt Hon Rosie Winterton MP said in reply "I would be more than happy to meet my hon. Friend, who I know is extremely concerned about the issue. I certainly take on board the point about the use of methods such as credit cards to make payment easier. A working group has been set up to consider the financial and technical barriers to that. When we meet, I shall be more than happy to update her on the progress that is being made"