Severn Crossing Toll

Written Evidence from J. M. Locke

Severn Bridge Tolls

I have just read the article in tonight’s ‘South Wales Argus’ concerning the future of tolls on the Severn Bridges, and by coincidence, have just written to The Secretary of State for Transport, on the associated and wider issue of motorway tolls generally.

I enclose a copy of this letter on the topic, which has been a ‘bee in my bonnet’ for many years. I trust that you will find the contents of interest and that you will agree with my philosophy, and that you will give it serious consideration when you take evidence at your enquiry. I strongly believe that this very logical, simple (and typically Swiss), method of toll collection warrants very serious consideration. Indeed, it is so simple and obvious I do not know why it has not been considered before.

July 2010

Copy of letter to Secretary of State for Transport from J. M. Locke

6th July 2010

Dear Sir,

Raising Revenue on the Motorways

I have, for a number of years thought that the very simple method adopted in Switzerland for charging for use of their motorway system has much to commend it. Indeed, a few years ago I wrote to the previous administration making the same point but unfortunately, did not receive any acknowledgement. With the change of Government, and at a time when the country needs all the revenue it can receive, I thought I should try again to put my point across.

Basically, to gain access to the Swiss motorway system, whether for 12 months or just visiting for a day, one must buy a vignette which is securely adhered to the vehicle windscreen. The vignette used to cost 40 Swiss francs and lasts for 12 months. These are purchased away from the motorway system, at post offices, and if a driver is caught on the motorway without displaying a current vignette he is fined heavily.

I see this system as having numerous advantages, and no disadvantages.

1. It would mean that visitors to the U.K. would share in the cost of wear and tear of the motorways, unlike the present system where are motorways are free to all, including visitors to the UK.

2. No toll booths are necessary, with their consequent slowing down of traffic flow.

3. The scheme would help to bring revenue to our ailing post office network.

4. Compared with the cost of motorway tolls in France, 40 Swiss francs (approximately £25) for a year’s use is cheap. Even for a short holiday visit, the payment represents good value, (as I found out personally when all I was doing was passing through Switzerland twice, to and from a holiday in Italy).

July 2010