"FOREIGN OFFICE SHOULD FORCE FOREIGN EMBASSIES TO PAY C-CHARGE" - POPE

2.10.50pm GMT Wed 17th Jan 2007

Commenting on the revelation that a number of foreign embassies will refuse to pay the congestion charge when it extends westwards from 19 February 2007, Liberal Democrat Transport Spokesperson on the London Assembly, Geoff Pope, said:

"Foreign embassies have a moral duty to respect the laws of their host countries. We'd expect British diplomats to observe the charges, customs and practice overseas, and we expect reciprocal behaviour to be shown here. The USA's refusal to pay even in the homeland of its key military ally remains an ongoing scandal.

'Embassies refusing to pay are depriving Londoners of almost £4m in unpaid charges. This is a charge for a service, not a tax. Embassies benefit from lower congestion levels and should pay the congestion charge like any other road user.

'The best way to foster good international relations is to follow the rule of law. The Mayor should be taking this up with the Foreign Office as a matter of urgency." ENDS

Notes to the Editors

1. Cameroon and Liberia have so far declared they are refusing to pay the congestion charge after the western extension comes into force. Other embassies belonging to the African Union have also shown signs of refusing to pay.