“The proposal to reduce the frequency of MOT testing is ill-thought-out and unsafe”, said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised vehicle dealers in the UK.
The NFDA has encouraged the Government to ‘reconsider’ Transport Secretary Grant Shapps’ rumoured proposal to move to biennial MOT testing.
Sue Robinson continued: “The NFDA is also deeply concerned that this proposal has been raised without prior consultation with the industry. The suggested move fails to take into account the investments franchised dealers have made in their equipment, workforce and facilities to provide drivers with an efficient and good value service.
“Additionally, the change would affect business confidence at a time when dealers and repairers alike are already facing a number of challenges as they recover from the pandemic and adapt to meet the Government’s ambitious Net-Zero targets.
“An MOT is the best way to identify minor issues before they become serious problems, which are often more expensive to fix. The change would significantly increase the risk of defects in vehicles and have a detrimental impact on road safety as well as on motorists’ finances in the long term.
“Instead of reducing the frequency of MOT testing, we encourage the Government to review current road tax rates. This will bring immediate benefits to millions of motorists without hindering road safety".
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
Gabriele Severini, NFDA Communications Manager
Tel: 0207 307 3423
Mob: 07880 039 897
Email: gabriele.severini@rmif.co.uk
