CAMPAIGNERS against congestion charging, who now appear also to be campaigning for an elected mayor, are in danger of confusing two very separate and distinct issues.

In so doing they are missing the opportunity to prevent congestion charging.

The position on congestion charging is very clear. Here, in Bolton, Conservatives are totally opposed to its introduction and have consistently maintained that opposition. The danger is that a bid has been made and Ruth Kelly MP, the Secretary of State for Transport, could agree to such a scheme.

At the same time, the leaders of most of the 10 councils in Greater Manchester are actively promoting plans for a Manchester City Region. If it is created, that body could become the promoter of congestion charging.

Again, on behalf of Bolton Conservatives, I spoke out to oppose these proposals at the recent meeting of Greater Manchester Councils (AGMA), but only the council leader, Cllr Cliff Morris, has a vote for Bolton.

If the twin plans for congestion charging and a Manchester City Region progress as the Labour leaders of Greater Manchester propose, even an elected mayor would not be able to stop them.

A referendum for an elected mayor would be too late. The only way is for local councillors to oppose both plans and that is just what Bolton Conservative councillors are doing.

At both the council meeting and the meeting of AGMA in December, I was accused of trying to make the local elections in May a referendum against congestion charging. If that is what is needed, then that is what Bolton Conservatives will do.

These issues are of such importance to the future of Bolton that they are at the top of the Conservative agenda.

Cllr John Walsh, Leader of the Conservative Group, Bolton Council