§ 31. Mr. SUTCLIFFEasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware that, as a result of recent changes in taxation, there is a growing tendency to attach trailers to motor vehicles in order to avoid heavy taxation on the ordinary commercial vehicle; and whether he intends to take any action in the matter?
Mr. STANLEYThe changes made by the Finance Act, 1933, in the taxation of mechanically-propelled vehicles will not become operative until 1st January next and figures are not yet available which would show whether or not the tendency to which my hon. Friend refers exists. I may point out that the rates of duty 1287 for the right to draw a trailer will also be substantially increased as from 1st January next.
§ Mr. SUTCLIFFEIs my hon. Friend aware that many carriers who operate with a single lorry, or possibly with two lorries, are finding it increasingly difficult to earn a livelihood as a result of these trailers?