Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to increase the level of taxation on large polluting vehicles in line with countries such as France.

Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) is a tax on vehicles used or kept on public roads. For certain vehicle classifications, VED liability is partially calculated in accordance with the vehicle’s weight, reflecting the greater road damage caused by heavier vehicles. For example, Heavy Goods Vehicle VED rates are set based on a vehicle’s weight, suspension and trailer.

The Government annually reviews the rates and thresholds of taxes and reliefs to ensure that they are appropriate and reflect the current state of the economy. The Chancellor makes decisions on tax policy at fiscal events in the context of the public finances.