HC Deb 17 February 1932 vol 261 cc1632-3
42. Colonel CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Minister of Transport if his attention has been drawn to the systems of special licence or taxation per ton mile for long-distance heavy motor haulage adopted by Germany and America to secure revenue for road upkeep; and if he will consider the desirability for instituting some such system for this country?

Mr. PYBUS

I am aware of the stringent provisions of the recent Road Transport Order in Germany which compels any operator conveying goods for hire or reward over distances exceeding 50 kilometres to obtain a licence and to charge fixed rates, but I am not aware of any system of taxation for goods vehicles per ton mile. I should be glad to receive any information on the subject in the possession of my hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. LESLIE BOYCE

Is the Government prepared to send a representative to Germany to investigate and report upon what is done in this matter?

Mr. PYBUS

We are following closely the operation of the regulations in Germany.