MOTORING expert Quentin Willson believes Manchester should not be bullied into a congestion charge scheme in exchange for a better public transport network.

The government has promised Manchester a £2.7bn Transport Innovation Fund (TIF) to carry out improvements to bus, rail, tram and school bus services if it introduces a two-ring congestion charge system with a peak-hour payment of up to £10 per day.

Public consultations are taking place. But, speaking exclusively to the M.E.N's sister TV station Channel M at the Trafford Centre's Motor Show yesterday, former Top Gear presenter Mr Willson said: "I believe fundamentally the whole notion of a congestion charge is flawed.

"I have a fundamental objection to blackmailing the people of Manchester that they will have a better transport system if they take the congestion charge. They deserve a better public transport system anyway. Have a referendum, have a fair and open referendum, that is democratic."

He said he was also concerned that commuters could end up paying an extra £800 to £900 a year to travel in and out of the city centre and that the scheme would not improve air quality or solve congestion problems.

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