Ellie Ames 15 September 2023

No investigation over ULEZ research collusion claims

No investigation over ULEZ research collusion claims  image
Image: https://www.london.gov.uk

There will be no investigation into the London Mayor’s deputy for environment over reports that she urged scientists to counter research relating to low emissions zones, the Mayor's office has said today.

Yesterday, the London Assembly called for the Mayor’s office and Greater London Authority to carry out an ‘urgent investigation’ into the claims.

In emails seen by The Telegraph, deputy mayor for environment Shirley Rodrigues asked Frank Kelly, an Imperial College professor, to counter research, covered in the media, that questioned the effectiveness of the ultra low emission zone (ULEZ).

The London Assembly said such ‘interference’ risked damaging public confidence in officials and undermining public support for ULEZ and future mayoral policies.

Caroline Pidgeon AM, who seconded the motion calling for an investigation, said: ‘Any report of politicians applying political pressure to change the outcome of a scientific report should worry anyone in a democratic society.

‘Political interference in academia would risk undermining the public’s trust both in politics, politicians and legitimate scientific studies.’

A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said: ‘The deputy mayor has helped to lead the work on cleaning up London’s toxic air – acting upon the expertise and advice of London’s world-leading scientists.

‘It is standard practice across government to commission independent experts to carry out research to inform the work we do.’

If this article was of interest, then check out our features, 'Now I am become Uxbridge, destroyer of rational climate discourse' and 'Home County drivers face taxation without representation'.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Law & Governance

South Kesteven District Council
c. £110k inc.
Effective decision-making in local government leads to better outcomes for communities. Lincolnshire
Recuriter: South Kesteven District Council

Regeneration Manager

West Northamptonshire Council
£65,098 - £71,353
The Major Projects and Regeneration Team, part of our Place, Economy and Environment directorate, is at the heart of delivering this vision. Working with government, private sector partners and our local communities, we are driving forward projects funded One Angel Square 4 Angel Street Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Director of Streetscene

Fareham Borough Council
£92,027 - £105,394 (Director Grade) Pay award pending
We continue to have big ambitions for our borough Fareham, Hampshire
Recuriter: Fareham Borough Council

Shared Lives Social Worker

Oxfordshire County Council
£37,035 - £43,693
About the Role Your role will be working with Shared Lives Carers and people who use the service to ensure that there is a good outcome for everyone. Assessing people for their suitability to become carers, presenting assessment reports to the Shared Live Abingdon with some agile working/working from home
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Lawyer Employment

Durham County Council
£45,718 to £49,764 p.a. (Grade 13) pay award pending
An opportunity for an Employment Lawyer has become available to work at Durham County Council as part of the Legal and Democratic Services Team. Durh Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner