§ 69. Sir FRANK SANDERSONasked the Minister of Transport whether, in place of the rebate at present allowed in the case of pre-1913 motor-cars, which is based not upon the age of the engine but the type of construction, he will consider the reduction by means of a sliding scale of tax based on the age of the engine; and whether he is aware that the existing high tax imposed on old motorcars is frequently in excess of the market value of the car and has a direct bearing upon the automobile industry?
§ Colonel ASHLEYA proposal to frame a system of motor licence duties on the lines indicated by my hon. Friend was considered by the Departmental Committee, who were unable to recommend its adoption. I do not know of any evidence that would lead me to suppose that an old car does less damage to roads than a new one, nor can I accept the suggestion contained in the second part of my hon. Friend's question.
§ Captain BRASSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, as the motor tax is based on the damage done to the roads, an old and consequently less efficient engine produces less horse-power and does less damage than a new one?
§ Captain WATERHOUSEHas the right hon. Gentleman had under consideration the putting of the tax on petrol instead of on motor-cars?