A protest boat named ‘HMS Toolmaker’ displaying anti-ULEZ slogans was parked near Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer’s residence, criticising Labour’s alleged plans to expand ULEZ across Britain. The protest comes a day before the General Election, with contrasting promises from the Conservatives to reverse ULEZ expansion and Labour focusing on electric vehicle infrastructure.
On July 3, 2024, a boat named “HMS Toolmaker” was parked near the residence of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. The vessel displayed anti-ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) slogans, criticizing Labour for allegedly planning to expand ULEZ across Britain. This protest came a day before the General Election.
The ULEZ policy, expanded by London Mayor Sadiq Khan in August 2023, requires drivers of high-polluting vehicles to pay a £12.50 daily charge in outer London to improve air quality. This expansion has faced significant backlash.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party have pledged to reverse the ULEZ expansion if they win the election. The Conservatives’ “Backing Drivers Bill” promises to support motorists by scrapping ULEZ expansions, banning pay-per-mile road taxes, and offering local referendums on Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and 20mph zones.
These pledges contrast with Labour’s plans, which include reinstating the 2030 ban on petrol and diesel vehicles and focusing on electric vehicle infrastructure. The election results may significantly impact motorists and environmental policies across the UK.
