HC Deb 28 April 1977 vol 930 c403W
26. Mr. Lipton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why the purchase of a licensed taxi-cab incurs VAT whereas it was exempt under the purchase tax system.

Mr. Robert Sheldon

VAT applies to all motor vehicles, whereas purchase tax was restricted to cars. Proprietors of London-type taxis who are registered for VAT can deduct the tax paid on their cabs.