HC Deb 17 May 1977 vol 932 cc87-8W
Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Transport why rates of vehicle excise duty for hackney carriages are not related to the unladen weight of the vehicle, as is the case for goods vehicles.

Mr. William Rodgers

Because seating capacity has been considered the more appropriate basis of taxation on commercial passenger vehicles.

Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Transport why vehicle excise duty for taxis is less than that for private cars.

Mr. William Rodgers

This has been customary since 1920.