HC Deb 15 June 1931 vol 253 cc1413-4
18. Mr. HANNON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will state what action is being taken by His Majesty's Government following upon the conclusion of the Convention on the taxation of foreign motor vehicles which was signed by 10 countries at the European road traffic conference in March last; and if any agreements have yet been made exempting private touring cars from taxation and other charges?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of TRANSPORT (Mr. Parkinson)

I have been asked to answer this question. As the Convention referred to has not yet been ratified by His Majesty's Government no action has been taken to put it into force. As regards the taxation of private motor cars belonging to foreign visitors, exemption from duty for four months is accorded under the Road Vehicles (International Circulation Permit) (No. 2) Regulations, 1930. Under the Convention it is proposed that 90 days should be accorded reciprocally by all the countries that are parties to the Convention. It will there fore be seen that we already treat the foreign motoring visitor more generously than is provided fox in the Convention which was recently signed.

Mr. HANNON

Why is a Lord of the Treasury asked to reply instead of the Foreign Secretary, who ought to reply? What steps are being taken, following upon this Convention? It was arranged that individual countries might make arrangements, and the hon. Member has not given any indication as to what progress has been made since the Convention?

Mr. PARKINSON

I have said that the matter is still under consideration. Of course, the other remark of the hon. Member should be made to the Minister.

Mr. HANNON

For the guidance of the House, Mr. Speaker, would you kindly state why, when a question is addressed to His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on a matter vitally affecting the interests of this country, one of His Majesty's Lords of the Treasury should reply?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a very old question. So long as the hon. Member receives an answer to his question, it does not seem to be of much importance who gives the answer.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Did not the answer come from the appropriate Department? Is not the hon. Gentleman who replied Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Transport?