The proposed workplace parking 'tax' is to be strongly opposed by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). The government plans, outlined in the Transport Bill in December 1999, would give local councils the power to charge traffic entering a town centre or to place a charge on workplace parking. The BCC argues that only the first option would have any effect on congestion. A spokesman told Facilities Management Legal Update that to introduce workplace parking charges would be no more than a "quick fix" scheme, using businesses as "unpaid tax collectors". The intention of the proposals is that employees pay the charges, but there has been speculation that many businesses would be forced to absorb the costs. The BCC estimates that this could cost British businesses £2bn per year and would significantly affect the UK's competitiveness in the international arena. The BCC is urging the government to charge traffic entering town centres and to improve public transport, rather than to increase the burden of red tape on businesses. Any such charges are likely to be introduced by 2001.