Written question asked by Lord Whitehead (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 July 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 17 July 2003. It was answered by David Jamieson (Labour) on Thursday, 17 July 2003 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Dept for Transport

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what plans he has to expand the scheme of assistance to purchasers of electric-petrol hybrid vehicles to include those private and business motorists leasing vehicles through direct arrangements with the manufacturers.

Answer: Dr. Whitehead: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to expand the scheme of assistance to purchasers of electric-petrol hybrid vehicles to include those private and business motorists leasing vehicles through direct arrangements with the manufacturers. [126919] Mr. Jamieson: The Government recognise that hybrid vehicles can provide useful environmental benefits over conventionally powered vehicles and that hybrid technology may provide a bridge between internal combustion engines and fuel cells. The Government support the take-up of hybrid vehicles with PowerShift purchase grants of £1,000. All leasing companies, including leasing companies associated with manufacturers, are eligible for PowerShift grants, which reduce the cost of the vehicle owned by the leasing company and put the leasing company in a position to provide lower priced vehicle leasing to motorists.

Secondary information