Written question asked by Simon Burns (Conservative) on Wednesday, 6 December 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 19 December 2000. It was answered by Brian Wilson (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 December 2000 on behalf of the Scotland Office.

Scotland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer regarding fuel prices in Scotland. (Failed OPQ) - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Burns: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer regarding fuel prices in Scotland. [141583] Mr. Wilson: My right hon. Friend has regular discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on a wide range of issues affecting Scotland. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor and I agree that the price of fuel is only one factor in any consideration of motoring costs. Independent research commissioned by my Department has shown that the taxation costs of private motoring are lower in Scotland than in European countries such as the Netherlands, Finland, Ireland and even Portugal. The average Scottish driver pays £1,000 a year less than in Denmark.

Secondary information