The Mayor needs a Plan B to avoid getting stuck in traffic problem
The question is: what is Plan B? Boris Johnson took office committed to consult about the future of the western extension of the congestion charge.
His own view appeared to suggest modifying it to remove the charge in the middle of the day. But the result of the consultation has led to the abandonment of the extension.
In truth, London's roads are badly congested and the problem is spreading outwards from the centre. The recession will only provide a temporary relief. Ken Livingstone's original decision to introduce congestion was brave and well executed.
Road pricing is not necessarily a Left-wing or Green policy. But political reality means most politicians are petrified of new charging schemes. A referendum in Manchester recently voted by almost four to one against charging. The public appears to like charging even less than congestion.
Most people still believe something needs to be done about the pollution, economic inefficiency and city-wrecking ugliness of congested roads. Increasing cycling, rephasing traffic lights and letting motor-bikes use bus lanes may make a marginal difference, but they will not stop the growth in jams.
A significant increase in car-free streets would be part of the answer. Kenneth Clarke as chancellor introduced a fuel price "escalator" to push petrol taxation up faster than inflation. If applied over a long period, this measure would curtail traffic everywhere. Would any government now dare to be so radical?
One way or another there needs to be a reduction in the numbers of vehicles in central London. This will be a major test for the Mayor. It seems there is currently no Plan B.
