The idea of a levy raised in the Port of Dover that advocates claim would generate “millions” has been backed by Ukip parliamentary candidate David Little.

Mick Tedder, of Buckland Avenue, first told the Mercury of the idea back in October.

The Dovorian, who has 40 years’ experience within the port industry, suggested that a 10p charge for each vehicle using the port would generate more than the 1% of pre-tax profits made by the Port of Dover.

The concept of a community fund was introduced in April during a visit by Stephen Hammond, the transport minister at the time.

Since then, the Port of Dover has had its Harbour Revision Order rubber-stamped, which allows it to borrow against its assets.

Mr Tedder has said: “I have personally always advocated a local toll on movements through the port.

'I have personally always advocated a local toll on movements through the port.' - Mick Tedder

“A charge of 10p for every truck, coach, car and passenger, and based on 2013 figures, would generate some £1.7 million, which – if figures of future throughout suggested by port managers are correct – could exceed £2 million in a few years.”

Mr Little, who will be fighting for the Dover and Deal seat as MP next May, said this was something he would campaign for if he was successful.

In a letter to the Mercury, he said: “I absolutely agree with Mr Tedder that a levy raised in the port should be spent in the port, but I would go much further than him.

“A tax on foreign lorries is providing approximately £24 million a year to the Treasury, of which not a single penny is returned to Dover.

“I intend to campaign hard that this money, in addition to Mr Tedder’s local toll, is invested in the port and surrounding community.

“£24 million each year may be small change for Westminster, but that would make an enormous difference in regenerating the whole of our district.”