Mayor Sadiq Khan 'increasingly concerned' about future of London transport after funding extension

London’s Mayor Sadiq Khan said he is becoming increasingly concerned about the future of transport in the capital after another short-term funding extension was announced.

Transport for London said it has agreed with the Government that its existing funding agreement will be extended until July 28 so talks can continue.

A spokesman said: “There is no UK recovery from the pandemic without a London recovery and there is no London recovery without a properly funded transport network in the capital.

“It is essential London receives the sustained long-term Government funding that is vital for the coming years if a period of ‘managed decline’ of London’s transport network is to be avoided.

“Whilst in receipt of Government support, we have worked hard to progress all conditions placed on TfL, and continue to maintain that we have met them all.

“Working together, we must achieve a longer term capital funding settlement that ensures London’s transport network can remain reliable and efficient, can support the jobs and new homes that rely upon it and can support the economic recovery of the capital and the country as a whole. We hope these discussions can be concluded successfully soon.”

'We can’t wait any longer'

Mr Khan said: “This short extension is only necessary because the Government has still not put forward any proposals for discussion on the long-term funding London needs. I am growing increasingly concerned that we can’t wait any longer without serious consequences.

“This is a £10 billion transport authority that is crucial to supporting jobs and economic growth. Without a long-term funding deal, TfL will have to prepare to make further painful cuts to London’s transport network – its ‘managed decline’ scenario.

“The devastating impact of the pandemic is the only reason TfL needs financial support. It is now imperative that the Government urgently works with me to agree a fair, long-term funding deal that will protect London’s transport network – not just for the sake of the capital, but the whole country.”

'Unwavering support to London'

A Department for Transport spokesman said: “For over two years, we’ve shown our unwavering support to London and its transport network, providing over £5 billion to keep vital transport services running and pledging over a billion pounds per year through business rates retention at the most recent spending review – all at a time of significant pressure on the national finances.

“With the cost of living rising across the country and the Tube nearing pre-pandemic passenger levels, it’s more important than ever that we agree a settlement which represents value for money for all taxpayers while delivering for London.

“Despite already granting one extension, TfL have been unable to provide information sufficiently demonstrating that conditions outlined in the current settlement are on track and reassure the Government that any long-term settlement will be in the interest of all UK taxpayers – we have agreed to another extension of 15 days.”

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