Revenue from Vehicle Emission Duty (FOI)

Request

I would like to understand more about the following;

A

How much has Vehicle Emission Duty raised annually since its introduction?

B

Is the money raised still used to replace the old VRD, or is it earmarked for environmental projects?

C

In either case, how has the money been spent?

Response

A

Vehicle Emission Duty (VED) was introduced in September 2010 (see Budget 2010, pages 30 to 31). The following table shows the revenue received from VED by year.

B

VED was introduced in September 2010 with the narrative surrounding its introduction associating it with various environmental initiatives:

Extract from Budget 2010:

“Environmental issues are very important. The States has recognised this by committing to an environmental agenda in the Strategic Plan that involves protecting the unique natural beauty of the Island, reducing waste and energy usage and meeting our global responsibilities (in particular with regard to carbon emissions and sustainable energy).

The level of commitment to achieve this through spending in the next few years forms part of the agreed Annual Business Plan for 2010. £2 million of this spend would need to be funded by an environmental tax if it is to continue in future years.”

However, VED forms part of the States of Jersey General Revenue Income (GRI), ie the same as income tax, GST, other impôts and so on, and, as such, it is not directly hypothecated towards any particular element of States Expenditure.

C

VED forms part of the wider GRI which funds all department net revenue expenditure per the financial forecasts in the Budget / Medium Term Financial Plan.