A DRAFT of the ballot paper going to every household and business in Bolton voting on the proposed congestion charge was released on Wednesday.

The recommended ballot paper design, pictured right, is part of a revised set of proposals on the charge and accompanying £3 billion of public transport improvements that will be decided at a top-level meeting on Friday.

The Association of Greater Manchester Authorities’ executive board, which is made up of the leaders the region’s 10 councils, will also decide if changes to the scheme following a three-month public consultation are acceptable.

If approved, it will pave the way for the countdown for a referendum on the controversial issue on December 12, with ballot papers sent out by November 28.

On Wednesday, the publication of the draft voting form resulted in the pro-congestion charge “Yes Campaign” demanding an apology from their “No” counterparts, who had accused organisers of the referendum of bias.

Sir Neil McIntosh, the returning officer for the referendum, said: “I regret the continuing suggestion in some quarters that the question is biased because it does not the mention the congestion charge.

“Now the recommended ballot paper has been published, the public will be able to see for themselves that this is not the case.”

Sir Neil said the wording on the voting card mentioned both key issues twice — the introduction of a peak-time, weekday charge to cross two charging rings around Manchester and the spending of £3 billion on public transport improvements in return.

It will be accompanied by a 12-page leaflet containing more information about the deal when voters receive it next month.