HC Deb 26 January 1960 vol 616 c27
44. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received seeking an early removal or reduction of the tax on Derv fuel oil.

Mr. Amory

I have received such representations regarding Derv from the Joint Fuel Tax Committee for the Passenger Road Transport Industry as well as from some local authorities.

Mr. Allaun

When the Chancellor is preparing his Budget, will he bear in mind that this tax on bus diesel oil is at the rate of 200 per cent., so that out of the £187,000 spent last year on fuel by the Salford City bus undertaking no less than £130,000 went on tax? Since bus transport is a necessity for most people. will the right hon. Gentleman consider reducing this tax rather than giving, as he did in his last Budget, £45 million a year in tax relief to those with incomes of over £2,000 a year?

Mr. Amory

I will, of course, take note of what the hon. Member has said.