§ Mr. Norman Fowlerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations he has had with organisations representing the police concerning his proposal to change the system for transfer of cherished number plates.
§ Dr. GilbertThe Home Office was consulted during the preparation of Clause 10 of the Finance Bill. One of the benefits that it is hoped would flow from the proposed new arrangements would be a reduction in the amount of police time that is at present spent on these matters.
§ Mr. Norman Fowlerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the statutory basis of the transfer of cherished number plates; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Dr. GilbertSection 23 of the Vehicles (Excise) Act 1971 provides for regulations governing vehicle registration to be made, but the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) Regulations 1971 do not provide for the transfer of a registration mark from one car to another. There is no statutory provision for charging for the transfer of marks. Clause 10 of the Finance Bill seeks to regularise the position.
§ Mr. Norman Fowlerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the average cost of a cherished number transfer; and by what amount he proposes to increase the charge to the public.
§ Dr. GilbertAbout £10. I am considering what a suitable charge would be.