asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether it is the policy of the Government to further and encourage the popular use of the motor-assisted pedal cycle, which provides cheap, go-as-you-please, door-to-door, effortless personal transport at a cost of approximately 1d. for six miles, particularly in view of the fact that this form of transport is increasing rapidly in continental countries, that it solves many parking and transport problems, and that it helps to promote good health and if, as an earnest of this encouragement, the Government will suspend the customs import duties on assembled engines and accessories for this form of transport for a period of one year from 1st March, 1952.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Motor-Assisted Pedal Cycles.
The existing revenue duty on engines for assisted pedal cycles, which is 10 per cent. ad valorem, has no appreciable effect on their use. I understand that these units sell at about £30 retail and the duty payable on the engine unit would be approximately £1.