HC Deb 23 November 1966 vol 736 cc1379-80
26. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Minister of Transport what representations her Department has had from rural bus operators concerning the difficulties created by recent Government measures.

Mrs. Castle

Certain representations have been made by the national associations of bus operators about the method of refund to bus operators of the increase in fuel duty and of Selective Employment Tax.

Mr. Mills

Does the Minister realise the appalling difficulties under which these bus operators are trying to work, as a direct result of this Government's methods—increased taxation, the cost of licences, fuel tax, investment allowances and many other things? Will she take steps to deal with this problem? Otherwise many of these operators will go out of business.

Mrs. Castle

I cannot accept that Government action has added to the difficulties. S.E.T. is refunded to bus operators, and so is the increase in fuel duties. It was on the previous occasion. We are the first Government to put forward some practical proposals to help bus operators.

Mr. Peter Walker

Is the Minister aware that the fuel duty, put on in July, is causing difficulties? So far the legislation to rebate it has not been passed. We on this side will do everything we can to facilitate such business going through the House.

Mrs. Castle

There is a later Question about legislation.

Mr. Mapp

Apart from the question referred to by the hon. Member for Torrington (Mr. Peter Mills), can my right hon. Friend state whether the deep-rooted cause is one that might be cured by fiscal measures? Will she make representations to the Chancellor in regard to fiscal measures which might to some extent relieve bus operators of the burden imposed by oil duties?

Mrs. Castle

A complete refund of the duty would be very costly—about £25 million. We have outlined in the White Paper our comprehensive plans for helping public transport financially.