Rises for public transport are bad for Londoner's pockets and damage the environment as more people take to their cars.

That is why the London mayor's fare rises of four per cent on the Underground and 13 per cent on the buses have to be examined very closely.

The fare increase raises around £125million, b ut Transport for London estimates the cancellation of the western extension of the congestion charge will lose them £50-£70m in re venue.

The decision to cancel the extra congestion charge for gas guzzlers means another £30m lost. The bulk of the fare rise therefore appears to be a straightforward switch from car drivers paying, to public transport users paying.

Loading the bulk of the increases on to bus users also discriminates against the less well off. The only thing they get for paying extra is a big cut in services.

CLLR DARREN JOHNSON Green Party Member

London Assembly City Hall