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Scottish parliament to give green light to road tolls

The Scottish parliament on Wednesay debated the final stages of the Transport (Scotland) Bill in a move which could see controversial road tolls being levied in Scotland for the first time.

The bill, which will give the go ahead to "congestion charging" systems for city centres, went before MSPs on Wednesday. The transport minister, Sarah Boyack, said it was further evidence of devolution delivering.

Boyack said: "Today sees the parliament consider the final stage of the first Transport Bill in a generation and Scotland stands on the brink of realising a detailed programme of Transport reform. At the heart of this Bill, is our aspiration to deliver real choice for the people of Scotland, delivering real improvements in the quality and accessibility of our public transport network so that people want to use it."

Measures also contained in the bill include free bus fares for the elderly and disabled, the introduction of 10 mph "Home Zones" in residential areas and new ticketing schemes.

Boyack added: "Free bus fares will improve the quality of life of pensioners and people with disabilities throughout Scotland. It also demonstrates our commitment to listen to what people have to say and to pursue social justice for all."

Published: Wed, 20 Dec 2000 00:00:00 GMT+00