§ Mr. BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what(a) discussions and (b) studies his Department is supporting in respect of the taxation of aviation fuel; and if he will make a statement. [63642]
§ Ms Glenda JacksonThe UK supported the Community Resolution of 9 June 1997 which asked the European Commission to study the environmental and economic effects in Europe of a tax on aviation fuel. The study report is expected early next year.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) agreed a work programme for its Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection in October this year. This includes the need to identify and evaluate the role which a range of market based options, including fuel taxes, might play in reducing aviation emissions. My Department will continue to play a leading role in this work programme which must be completed before the next ICAO Assembly in 2001.