Firms 'should avoid the LEZ charges whenever possible'

Companies and individuals who regularly use their vehicles to travel into the capital could make use of van leasing to avoid £200 penalties.

Natalie Chapman, head of policy for London at the Freight Transport Association, said that the extra charge should be one avoided by operators who are already struggling with the high cost of fuel.

The charge is now applied to all vans which do not meet the new European standards in the London Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Those with older vehicles that do not meet the new regulations could hire a newer van out for trips into the capital to avoid paying the premium.

Ms Chapman explained that the LEZ "isn't going to disappear" and other cities in the UK may introduce similar schemes, so firms may want to "act now" rather than avoid complications in the future.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson stated the initiative was to help improve the quality of the air in the capital.