§ Sir SAMUEL SCOTTasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that owing to the total absence of machinery by which traders can obtain the rebate of 1½d. per gallon upon petrol supplied to taxicabs and commercial vehicles, they have been compelled to charge an extra 3d. per gallon upon all petrol, whether supplied to taxicabs or private individuals; and whether, in view of the hardship thereby sustained by both 1643 the drivers of taxicabs and the traders in petrol, he can give prompt information as to the method by which rebate can be claimed?
§ Mr. RENWICKasked whether the right hon. Gentleman's attention has been called to circulars issued by the importers of petrol and its products raising the price of same by 4d. per gallon whether for use by motor-cars or for other purposes; and will he take steps to ensure a rebate of the 4d., or at least 3d. per gallon, the amount of the duty, being returned to those who have already paid the enhanced price or who are called upon to pay it in the future in cases when the petrol or its products are used otherwise than in motor vehicles?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEI must refer the hon. Members to the answer which I gave yesterday to the hon. Member for Hammersmith. The rebate of either the whole or part of the duty on petrol will, of course, only be allowed in cases where it can be shown that duty has been paid on such petrol, and I cannot accept responsibility for the action of dealers who have raised the price of petrol imported prior to the imposition of the duty.
§ Mr. RENWICKWill the right hon. Gentleman state how those who have purchased at the enhanced price can recover rebate in case those who have sold the oil will not allow it?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEThey cannot get rebate except in respect of duty paid. Of course, if the duty has not been paid the Government cannot be asked to return money it has never received.