§ Mr. Ancramasked the Secretary of State for Energy what is the outcome of the discussions which his officials have been having with the motor industry aimed at improving the petrol consumption of new cars sold in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. David HowellThe joint working group comprising representatives of Government, the motor industry, the oil industry has now submitted its report, a copy of which has been placed in the Library of the House. It recommends the adoption of a voluntary scheme on fuel consumption targets aimed at achieving 10 per cent. improvement in the average petrol consumption of new cars by 1985. The Government welcome the announcement earlier today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders that it is adopting this scheme. It is an important first step towards the substantially greater vehicle fuel economy which is essential in helping to restrain our demands for oil.