Gridlock: Parties snubbing transport?

The issue of transport is being "brushed under the carpet" in this election campaign, according to a leading campaign group.

Transport 2000 said the next government must address important issues on transport - particularly its contribution to climate change.

The group argues that politicians consistently avoid making the connection between climate change, transport policy and individual travel behaviour.

Director Stephen Joseph said: "Politicians are brushing climate change and other urgent transport issues under the carpet in this election but the bump is getting too big to hide.

"Whoever forms the next government will need face up to some hard issues, such as the need to cut traffic and aviation in order to tackle climate change and protect our environment and quality of life, while keeping Britain moving at the same time."

Transport now accounts for 26 per cent of emissions in the UK. 

Road traffic is continuing to rise by around two per cent a year, and aviation is expected to at least double by 2030.

Ten-point plan

The campaign group has put forward a ten-point plan which they want to see implemented by the next transport secretary.

Transport 2000 wants to see improved public transport including reduced fares, investment in rail upgrades and more tram services.

It says walking and travelling should be made more attractive and people should be given more opportunity to change their travel habits, for example through support for more school travel choices.

The group points out that aviation is one of the biggest future sources of greenhouse gas emissions and wants to see the growth in air travel tackled.
 
It also says is is not possible for Britain to build its way out of road congestion, and there should be a move towards a national road charging scheme.

Other issues covered in the 10-point plan are the integration of transport and land use planning, reform of motoring taxes, promotion of cleaner fuels and vehicles, tackling speed and road safety, and reducing road and air-freight.