§ 29. Mr. J. Rodgersasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation how far the fee charged for a driving test covers the cost to the Exchequer; and the annual loss to the Exchequer.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterThe average cost of each driving test in the financial year 1953–54 was 12s. 8d., compared with the fee of 10s. The loss to the Exchequer was £90,000.
§ Mr. RodgersWould my right hon. Friend not agree that it is wrong for the general taxpayer to have to subsidise people wishing to take driving tests? Does he not think a charge should be made to cover the cost of taking the test?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterA figure is laid down in current legislation and in those circumstances perhaps I ought not to comment upon it.