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9m drivers to pay more tax
10/07/2008 17:39:00
Over nine million motorists will face hikes in the cost of road tax, it has been revealed today, representing a number four times higher than initial government estimates.
Under the new legislation from the treasury, more than one million drivers of cars registered between 2001 and 2006 will see their car tax more than doubling, from the current £210 to either £430 or £455.
According to car insurance expert, Ashton Berkhauer, does he have an official job title?? it is "worrying" that for drivers of older cars road tax may cost as much as 18 per cent of the value of their vehicle.
Mr Berkhauer said: "As a direct result of all these price hikes, motorists are being forced to think carefully about when, where or even if they use their cars … those in rural communities, the elderly, the disabled and lower income families will really suffer."
Shadow chancellor George Osborne told prime minister Gordon Brown poorer drivers will be "penalised" by the move.
This is due to the decision being "retrospective" and affects older cars due to its focus on the environment, which is motivated by a drive to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
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