Former Mayor of London Ken Livingstone has been awarded a European Railway Award.
Mr Livingstone was presented with the Laureate Political Award in February in front of more than 500 guests from all over Europe, including politicians and transport stakeholders.
Mr Livingstone won the award for his decision to implement the congestion charge in inner London in 2003, a scheme that was instrumental in setting the example of how to improve the sustainability of transport.
The scheme ensures that the transport network as a whole benefits from the charge, as by law all net revenue raised must be invested in improving transport in London.
Accepting the award, Mr Livingstone outlined his thoughts on the decision to implement such a revolutionary policy.
He said: “The London congestion charge has been clearly effective in encouraging people to switch to public transport and less polluting alternative modes of transport. Applying the ‘polluter pays’ principle clearly demonstrates the benefits that can be achieved through the proper charging for external effects of road transport, and I encourage other cities to follow.”
Brian Simpson, chairman of the European Parliament’s transport and tourism committee, said: “Giving the award to Ken Livingstone is a recognition of the great political leadership he has shown in pushing through tough transport policy choices which have often gone against the popular tide of thinking.
"We hear a lot of rhetoric about wanting to get people out of their cars and on to public transport, but Ken Livingstone took the crucial step of putting ideas into practice. He delivered a sustainable transport agenda for London, showing us concrete action that delivered on the EU's transport priorities of promoting public transport, reducing emissions and tackling congestion in city centres.
"In introducing the congestion charge, Ken Livingstone made London an example to cities throughout Europe and across the world. Ken's policy saw a 20% drop in CO2 emissions and raised crucial funds to be reinvested in improving the capital's public transport.”
The European Railway Award is organised by the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies, the European Rail Infrastructure Managers, and the Association of the European Rail Industry.
More information: EU