§ Mr. BurdenTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what representations he has received about the proposed changes to the vehicle licensing system;
(2) what plans he has for concessions for the classic car sector from the proposed changes to the vehicle licensing system;
(3) what assessment he has made of the extent to which the proposed changes to the vehicle licensing system will encourage registration among those who formerly avoided road tax;
(4) what assessment he has made of the effect of (a) use-based charges and (b) flat-rate registration fees on car use;
(5) what assessment he has made of the effect of the changes to the vehicle licensing system on small businesses concerned with classic car restoration.
§ Sir George YoungMy right hon. learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has received a number of representations about the proposed changes to the vehicle licensing system which will introduce a system of continuous licensing based on possession rather than use for all cars and motorcycles. The aim of the change, together with the measure to improve the quality of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's vehicle register, is to counter vehicle excise duty evasion, which costs the taxpayer £145 million or more in lost revenue each year, and assist police efforts against car-related crime. Details of how the new system will operate have yet to be decided. A consultation document, to be issued later this year, will seek views from interested parties.