This is from the Telegraph, May 2008.
Figures compiled by the AA show that the average motorist pays more than �1,800 annually in fuel duty, car tax, VAT on petrol and other levies � an increase of more than 50 per cent in little more than a decade. .while Treasury revenue from motorists is nearing �50 billion, the total spending on roads is less than �8 billion.
In addition, the environmental costs associated with motoring are estimated at less than �6 billion by the Government � suggesting that drivers are funding public spending with no connection to motoring or its effects.
Of course, unless those who own more than a small car, get rid of their vehicles, which many can't afford to do, the cost of motoring will now increase substantially.
It's my understanding that these new charges are being implemented under the 'Green' banner, but is this money really going to go towards improving the environment? We had an extra �10 in tax added to the cost of flights not so long ago, again under the 'Green' banner, but where is that money actually going? Into the government coffers, that's where, to be frittered away just as so much has been frittered away.
This government's aim is to get blood out of a stone - and it's succeeding. It's bleeding the people of this country dry with its constantly rising taxes - and now it's doing it under false pretences. So yes, Gordon Brown is a liar - and his cronies with him.