HC Deb 31 October 1939 vol 352 cc1743-4
54. Mr. Doland

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the widespread ruin facing employers and employes engaged in the retail motor trade owing to the rationing of petrol, and particularly the increased tax on horse-power of motor-cars; and whether, in view of the number of motor-cars which will be laid up by their owners, he will consider reducing the horse-power tax in view of the restricted use care owners can make of their motor-cars?

Sir J. Simon

I appreciate that the rationing of petrol has adversely affected the retail motor trade, and it may be that the horse-power tax also contributes somewhat to its present difficulties, but I am not in a position to propose a reduction of that or any other tax.

Mr. De la Bére

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the retail motor trade employs 165,000 persons; and does he not think that some further steps are necessary?