§ 36. Mr. Ernest Daviesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many representations he has received from operators of public service vehicles in regard to the adverse effect of the present level of oil duties on bus and coach services particularly in the rural areas.
§ Mr. SimonMy right hon. Friend and I have received representations on this matter from, or on behalf of, 14 companies operating public service vehicles and from four Associations representing such operators generally. Representations have also been received from a number of local authorities, some of whom operate their own public service vehicles.
§ Mr. DaviesIn view of the very large number of representations which have been received concerning the heavy burden of the motor fuel tax upon public service vehicle operators, what action does the Chancellor propose to take? Is he aware that there is increasing evidence of a reduction in the services, particularly in the rural areas, and a general deterioration of public services as a result of this heavy tax? Now that the principle of discrimination in regard to the imposition of this tax has been accepted by exempting members of the United States Forces from the petrol tax, cannot the Minister extend this concession to the operators of public service vehicles?
§ Mr. SimonI rather think that that supplementary question was really designed to air the points that the hon. Gentleman had in mind rather than to tempt me to anticipate my right hon. Friend's Budget statement.