when the initial consultation was launched, there was initial opposition and support for a congestion charge scheme. transform scotland, a transport pressure group, supported the two cordon scheme. friends of the earth scotland also welcomed the proposals as they believed they would reduce air pollution and improve the city environment. the princes street association opposed the scheme, stating that businesses in the city centre would be put at a competitive disadvantage. two public surveys in march 2002 had shown opposition to a charging scheme from 75% of suburban edinburgh residents and 64% across the whole city. scottish executive support was anticipated, but the executive stated that it was up to local authorities to propose schemes. the aa scotland stated its opposition to the scheme. the hospitality industry supported the scheme, subject to improved public transport. fife council announced a report into the impact onto their area, whilst west lothian council opposed the outer cordon as a penalty on commuters into edinburgh. concern was also expressed that the dvla would not be able to trace 1 in 12 of those not paying.