The Government is considering plans to introduce a new two-tier road tax system.
Under the scheme, drivers could be offered a lower rate of tax if they agree not to use the country's network of motorways and major A-roads. Those paying the higher level of tax would be free to use any roads.
The two-tier system would be enforced using the country's network of Automatic Numberplate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, which would allow the transport authorities to catch drivers using the motorways without paying the higher rate of tax.
The Government is currently looking into new ways through which to tax motorists as the revenue generated by the current VED system continues to fall. A number of proposals have been mooted, including the so-called 'Gas-guzzler' tax which would replace the current VED system with a one-off sales tax on new cars.
Although no decisions have been made over the proposed new system, the plans have come under criticism from the AA. The motoring group warned that the new system could price as many as a third of motorists off the motorway system.
"We don't want a first and second class system on the roads," said AA spokesperson Paul Waters. "There would certainly be more traffic. It will lead to slower journeys and more congestion."
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