Experts say the new proposal would invalidate claims agains tthe government for failing to enforce EU pollution laws. Since 2010 London and several other cities have failed to meet standards

Britons will lose their right to sue the government for breaking the law under Brexit plans that could allow ministers to escape censure over air pollution.

Legislation to ban individuals and companies from bringing compensation claims against Whitehall after Brexit is being drawn up, The Times has learnt.

Swathes of the law covering areas such as the environment, workers’ rights and business regulation will no longer be subject to financial redress through the courts. Since a European Court ruling in 1991, citizens have been able to sue member states for damages if their rights were infringed by the failure of a country to implement EU law.

Experts say the new proposal, contained in the European Union repeal bill, would invalidate claims against the government for