To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many cars registered in the UK were eligible for Band A vehicle excise duty in the latest period for which figures are available. (186953)

As at the end of September 2007 there were 363 vehicles licensed under the band A zero rate of Vehicle Excise Duty.

It has also come to light that the figure reported for band A in a written answer to the hon. Member for Bexleyheath and Crayford (Mr. Evennett) on 30 October 2006, Official Report, column 318W, was incorrect. The Treasury apologises for this error. The correct figure for the number of band A cars licensed as at the end of October 2006 was 342.

The band A zero rate for cars with the very lowest carbon emissions was introduced in Budget 2006 to encourage take-up and assist the development of the low carbon market. The Government are aware of at least one model of car available in the UK market that is eligible for this rate.