UK drivers planning continental holidays could soon face a significant new financial burden under plans being considered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. A proposed 'pay-per-mile' car tax system would charge motorists for travelling long distances, with journeys to France being a primary target.
The Proposed 'Pay-Per-Mile' System
Under the scheme, which is currently believed to be scheduled for implementation from 2028, motorists would be forced to pay 3p for every mile they drive. This could lead to the average driver facing an extra £250 every year in additional taxation.
The proposed change, reported by The Telegraph, would particularly affect road users making long-distance journeys to the European Union continent. For a family driving to France, this would mean a new UK tax being applied on top of existing French motorway tolls.
Critics Slam 'Crazy' Double Taxation
The plans have drawn sharp criticism from commentators and experts. Speaking with GB News star Dawn Neesom, Jeremy Stubbs, deputy editor of French conservative magazine Causeur, laid into the proposals, calling the threatened tax "just seems crazy".
Dawn Neesom explained the practical implications: "So when you go overseas, like cross the Channel into France, you could add £45 for a round trip driving across the Channel down to NIS, for example."
She highlighted the apparent contradiction in environmental policy, noting: "The move means that British motorists could face a double cost, the UK mileage levy on top of France's motorway tolls, which, by my reckoning, means it's probably cheaper to fly and destroy that environment we all care so much about."
The Financial Impact on Holidaymakers
Mr Stubbs provided a detailed breakdown of the potential costs facing British motorists. He explained that the toll fare "for the upkeep of French motorways" could prove very costly on its own.
"If you take the motorway, which is the best way to travel, and that round trip would be, by my calculation, £220," he said. "So you're being clobbered both by taxes in France and the long arm of the Chancellor reaching across from Britain? It does seem unfair."
The commentator expressed confusion about the government's mixed messaging, stating: "They are making life even more complicated by them. So this is rather typical of this Government. We get mixed signals. On the one hand, yes, go ahead and respect the environment. On the other hand, it'll cost you a lot more."
Mr Stubbs did acknowledge that similar ideas were being considered elsewhere, noting: "I do understand, though, that in Switzerland they're thinking of a similar tax to Rachel Reeves." However, he added sarcastically: "Presumably, once the Swiss learn that they are having the same idea as Rachel Reeves, they'll backtrack on it, right?"
He concluded with a pointed criticism of the proposal's timing and message: "This is the problem with any European country introducing it. And the current Government says that we want to get close to our European friends. But this is exactly the opposite as a message. How did they come up with this idea? I'm not quite sure."
