A Labour MP is calling for bridge tolls on the new Mersey Gateway crossing to be suspended over the Christmas period.The website Runcorn and Widnes World reports that local member for Weaver Vale, Mike Amesbury, fears many friends, family and visitors of residents may be caught unawares and fined over Christmas.It quotes him as saying, 'Under current plans, thousands of Christmas visitors to our region will have to spend precious time on Christmas Day on phones or computers paying tolls.'I also fear that people from outside the immediate area will be using the new system for the first time when they visit friends and family and may not be aware of the tolls ' meaning an unwelcome Christmas present of a £40 fine.'It points to figures revealing that that the Dartford Crossing, also operated by Mersey Gateway tolling company Emovis issued almost 17,000 fines from 24-26 December in the first year of free flow charging and that Mr Amesbury fears similar issues on the new crossing.UPDATEThe Liverpool Echo reports that the request has been turned down.It says, "The MGCB has turned Mr Amesbury down, arguing that... residents would be lumped with the bill for the shortfall because the discounts scheme is funded by Halton Borough Council with support from the Government."