Under the proposals, local authorities will be handed new powers to set up charging trials should they wish to do so.

The draft Local Transport Bill hands local authorities more flexibility to match road pricing schemes to local conditions while also fitting in with schemes in a larger geographical area.

Ten areas in England, including Manchester and Birmingham, have expressed an interest in implementing a road pricing scheme.

The proposed bill has been introduced despite widespread public opposition – almost 2 million people signed an online petition against road charging earlier this year.