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Written question asked by Louie French (Conservative) on Thursday, 10 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 September 2026. It was answered by James Murray (Labour) on Thursday, 17 September 2026 on behalf of the Treasury.

Motorcycles: Excise Duties

Question

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, for what reason Vehicle Excise Duty for motorcycles is calculated on engine size rather than vehicle weight; and if he will make it his policy to commission a review of motorcycle VED.

Answer

Vehicle Excise Duty for motorcycles is currently based on engine size. There are four engine size ranges, with the lowest rate applying to zero emission motorcycles and the smallest engines sized 150cc or less (currently £27 per year), and the highest rate applying to engines sized 600cc and above (currently £125 per year).

Historically, engine capacity-based rates have offered the most practical and easy-to-understand way to reflect the respective emissions levels of motorcycles. 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.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
28858
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Excise duties Motorcycles
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk