A GREEN MEP issued a call yesterday for free public transport in urban areas across south-east England on days when air pollution levels are particularly high.

Keith Taylor spoke out as experts said swathes of Britain are being hit by high levels of air pollution as the country experiences warm weather.

The problem is caused by a build-up of pollutants from local sources, such as traffic fumes, which are not being dispersed due to a lack of wind.

Mr Taylor, Green MEP for South East England, said Britain should follow the example of Paris, where authorities made public transport free in a spell of heavy smog last year.

“Measures such as making public transport free for the day should be considered during serious smog episodes in Britain such as the one we’re experiencing today,” he said.

“Previous actions taken in Paris shows they recognise the unrest caused by air pollution.

“How many deaths does it have to take before the government will properly act?”