London prepares for launch of ultra-low emissions zone

Almost 1,000 people a year in London are hospitalised with asthma caused by pollution

London is preparing to enforce "world-leading" vehicle pollution restrictions from Monday as the capital attempts to clean up the toxic air blamed for thousands of premature deaths.

The ultra-low emission zone, or Ulez, will launch at one minute past midnight on April 8, imposing a 12.50-a-day charge to drive into central London in all but the cleanest cars and vans.