Oxford MP Andrew Smith last night voted with the Government on its planned car-tax hike for the most-polluting vehicles - despite speaking out against the scheme.

The Government averted a potential Labour rebellion on the issue by agreeing to take another look at its proposals, which could lead to motorists being charged up to £455 in vehicle-excise duty.

Speaking in the Commons, the Labour MP for Oxford East had earlier called on Ministers to go back to the drawing board with the Bill, but the promise of future concessions meant many potential rebel MPs voted with the Government.

Mr Smith had branded the changes unfairly retrospective because they would apply to cars registered as far back as 2001, but in last night's vote just six rebel Labour MPs voted against their party.