asked the Minister for the Environment if, in the case of school transport vehicles and buses used for the transport of children to schools, the tax for such vehicles in excess of 15 horse-power is now £55, as compared with £26 last year; if so, the reasons for such an increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

There has been no recent increase in the road tax rates for the motor vehicles in question. Since 1973 school buses have been taxable at a maximum rate of £55 per annum which applies to all such buses exceeding 15 horse-power.