Finance (Excise Duties)(Vehicles) Bill, 1952

Public bill · Government · Introduced

From 1 January 1953, annual vehicle tax would be charged on mechanically powered vehicles used on public roads, with rates based on factors such as engine size, weight, horsepower, passenger capacity and use; the detailed schedule appears on pages 5–10. Essential vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines, road-cleaning vehicles and certain road-building or sea-rescue vehicles would be exempt, while using a vehicle in a way that attracts a higher rate could result in a penalty of at least £20. The measure would also introduce a £1 charge for driving licences from 23 October 1952 and increase the yearly charges for vehicle manufacturers, repairers and dealers, raising the cost of owning, operating and trading in vehicles.

Last updated 10 June 2020