asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider reducing the 10 per cent VAT charge on learner drivers of Motor Schools Association of Ireland to a lower or zero rating in view of its importance to road safety.

Questions of reductions in VAT rates are generally matters for consideration in a budgetary context and the Deputy will be aware that a concession of the kind suggested is not envisaged this year.

I might mention that the suggestion would be affected by EEC obligations.