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The government has stated that a no-deal Brexit would not see the repeal of legislation requiring the UK to introduce clean air zones to bring urban air quality up to EU standards.

Local authorities have blamed central government for implementing EU directives for the clean air zones (CAZs) that could see Euro-5 and older trucks charged up to £100 a day to enter dozens of city centres. The UK government is being forced to implement CAZs due to legal action by Client Earth to enforce these EU directives.

But a Defra spokeswoman told MT: “The government is fully committed to tackling air pollution and that is independent of being a member of the EU. Under the Withdrawal Act, statutory instruments have been made which ensure continuity of air quality regulation, standards and transparency.

“The government has invested £3.5bn into air quality and cleaner transport to reduce levels of NO2. We are working closely with local authorities on the development of local air quality plans, including with those in Greater Manchester.

“We have provided £36 million to support Greater Manchester’s scheme and their new clean air zone. We have also made clear we will provide further funding for businesses and affected individuals, however until the authority comes forward with its final evidence-based plan, we cannot provide the individual funding they are asking for.”

  • Operators affected by the Birmingham Clean Air Zone (CAZ) are invited to attend a free half-day event, hosted by Motor Transport in partnership with the city council, to learn about the scheme's progress and gain invaluable advice for keeping your fleet compliant.Taking place on 10 October at Villa Park Stadium, the roadshow will hear from Sylvia Broadley, air quality manager for Birmingham City Council, who will share the city’s CAZ launch plans, while a council-led workshop to help delegates understand the funding options available for commercial vehicle operators will form a key part of the day.If you are running an older fleet and are concerned about how you will be able to meet the deadline to comply, this workshop will help you to explore the options available for applying for grants, whether exemptions apply to your fleet, and what other funding is available.

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