The Government is considering the introduction of mileage and emissions-based charges for lorries to cut congestion on the roads, according to reports.

The "pay-per-mile" system could be used to replace taxes such as fuel duty, and could be rolled out to other vehicles if successful, The Times reported.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said there were "no plans" to roll out road pricing, but a consultation is being carried out to update the HGV road user levy, which was introduced in 2014 to ensure vehicles make a contribution to the wear and tear of the road network.

A spokesman said: "We are consulting on the HGV levy to help hauliers make more efficient use of our roads and improve environmental performance, including air quality and carbon emissions.

"Heavy Goods Vehicles cause greater wear and tear to road surfaces than many other vehicle types, and are responsible for a significant proportion of transport emissions which is why we are reviewing the levy."

It came as the DfT announced plans to allow councils to bid for up to £100 million of funding for each A-road they want to enhance.