§ Sir M. Galpernasked the Minister of Transport what percentage of private motorists paid the road tax by instalments during the fiscal year 1962–63; what is the true annual rate of interest charged when the tax is paid by three instalments; and why this charge is made.
§ Mr. MarplesApproximately 40 per cent.; the extra charge for taking out three licences instead of one amounts to 10 per cent. of the annual tax; partly because additional work is entailed and partly as an inducement to motorists to choose the longer term licence.