by Business editor Trevor Sturgess

Small businesses are demanding that Dartford Crossing tolls be scrapped altogether following the Government's U-turn on proposed hikes.

They welcomed the decision to abandon - at least for the time being - the planned increase.

Road minister Mike Penning bowed to pressure from angry firms by postponing a move that would have seen tolls go up from the current £1.50 to £2 this month and to £2.50 in April. But he did not rule out any future rises.

Both bridge and tunnel have been paid for and the Government makes around £40m from the tolls, with barriers contributing to massive traffic congestion.

Tolls at some other crossings in the UK are seen as barriers to business and have been scrapped.

The change of heart represents a victory for The Federation of Small Businesses which campaigned vigorously against the proposal, saying it would have a severe impact on traders, especially when they were already facing tough economic times.

Roger House, FSB chairman for Kent and Medway said: "What would be ideal is for the tolls to be axed to further promote economic growth in Essex and Kent."

Neville Gaunt, FSB North Kent Branch Chairman added: "Surely the logical thing is to scrap the Dartford Charge altogether and demonstrate that if you make a profit you should be rewarded and not penalised."