The Advertising Standing Authority (ASA) has launched an investigation into a TV advert promoting Sadiq Khan's Ultra Low Emission Zone expansion (ULEZ). 

It comes as the ASA began looking into the advert after it received over 370 complaints, according to MyLondon. 

The ULEZ advert was commissioned by Transport for London (TfL) in a bid to promote the expansion and stated that: "London has an urgent air quality problem and it's impacting the health of Londoners."

It continued the Mayor of London's argument that toxic air in the capital led to the premature deaths of thousands of Londoners, hoping that the expansion will reduce the health risks.

Evidencing the health impact on Londoners, the Mayor's office published research reviewed by Imperial College London, finding that 200,000 highly polluting vehicles are driving in the capital regularly, seeing around 4,000 Londoners die prematurely.

However, some boroughs have shown their disapproval of the expansion, with areas including Bexley, Bromley, Harrow and Hillingdon all concerned about residents paying £12.50 a day to drive in the ULEZ. 

Sadiq Khan's ULEZ advert investigated amid complaints

Following the release of TfL's advert for the expansion, ASA shared a statement, saying: "We’ve received 370 complaints about this ad. We’re currently investigating to determine whether there are grounds for further action."

READ MORE: What is the ULEZ and why is it expanding in 2023?

READ MORE: Will I have to pay to drive in London's ULEZ?

In further statements from the ASA, they shared to complainers that they were requesting evidence from TfL, saying: "Unfortunately, we are unable to give a timescale. It will depend on a number of factors and because we are requesting evidence from TFL, potentially it could take some time.”

Nick Rogers AM, City Hall Conservatives Transport spokesperson told MyLondon: "I’m not surprised that the ASA is investigating the Mayor of London’s ULEZ advertisements, not only did an overwhelming majority of Londoners oppose Sadiq Khan’s expanded ULEZ in the official consultation, they also understand it will do next to nothing to improve air quality.

“It is disingenuous for TfL to imply that an expanded ULEZ will significantly clean up London’s air. Sadiq Khan must listen to London and cease this damaging policy that will hit the poorest in our city the hardest, and pursue policies that are far more likely to clean up London’s air.”

Whilst a TfL spokesperson said: "Each year, around 4,000 people die prematurely because of air pollution and the ULEZ will help tackle this health crisis. We know that tackling air quality is an emotive issue and that the ASA has been contacted by some members of the public.

"As is standard practice for the ASA, they have asked for additional information and we are now providing them with evidence that clearly demonstrates how the ULEZ expansion will help clean up poor quality air across the capital.”