Most Londoners support the expansion of London’s Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), according to a survey commissioned by environmental law charity ClientEarth with 68% saying they are worried about children breathing in pollution.

The survey shows that 68% of those questioned think higher-polluting vehicles should pay more than other vehicles for travelling through the capital, with 51% saying they support an expansion of the scheme, with 33% opposing it.

This week sees the start of the six month countdown to the expansion of the ULEZ from central London to the North and South Circulars, however, some candidates have pledged to scrap the expansion if elected, reports Air Quality News.

Simon Alcock, ClientEarth’s head of public affairs, said: “Toxic air is not going to disappear on its own. This poll clearly shows Londoners want their Mayor to do something about it. We know the ULEZ works. That’s why we should make it as wide as possible so it benefits people’s health in all corners of the capital. This needs to be supplemented by help and support for small businesses and people on low incomes so they are able to transition to cleaner forms of transport.”

He added: “It is no surprise parents are so concerned. We have just seen air pollution officially blamed for the tragic death of nine-year-old Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah. Our capital has the filthiest air in Britain and children are some of the first to suffer.”