To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans he has to reduce motoring costs in rural areas; and if he will make a statement. [101637]

National statistics show that average motoring costs—for motorists in rural areas and elsewhere—have fallen by 5 per cent. in real terms since 1997. This fall is primarily due to lower car prices which we have encouraged through greater retail competition. We have also reduced vehicle excise duty for motorists who use fuel-efficient cars and introduced fuel duty incentives for clean fuels—all of which rural motorists can benefit from.