11:29 pm, October 22, 2011
THE RMI’s chairman Colin Parlett has called for a clarification of the MOT system ‘as soon as possible’.
Speaking at the federation’s annual dinner at the Dorchester Hotel, London, last night, Parlett called on the Government to ‘reflect on the success of the existing scheme’ and ‘not necessarily follow the example of our European partners.
‘Last year Mike Penning, Minister for Transport, stood here and said he would shortly be announcing a review of the MOT. 12 months on and we are still waiting for this announcement,’ Parlett said to guests from all parts of the automotive sector.
‘The industry is now in a vacuum which deters investment both in premises and employment. The Federation calls on Government to reflect on the success of the existing scheme and not necessarily follow the example of our European partners.
‘The existing situation much be addressed as a matter of urgency not losing sight of the fact that the MOT was introduced to improve safety on the road along with a reduction of road deaths.’
The RMI has been in discussions with the Department of Transport, ‘airing their views on what positive changes could be made’ to the MOT system, viewing the analysis as ‘a positive step’.
REVIEW OF 2011
Meanwhile Parlett also gave a brief outline on the progress made over the year from the federation’s individual associations.
For franchised dealers, the NFDA ‘continues’ to lobby for a fair deal on their behalf. Parlett said: ‘We must ensure a balanced relationship between car manufacturers and retailers.’
The NFDA also have been in discussions with the OfT, and have developed a number of ‘new working groups’ such as a used car forum ‘incorporating both franchised and independent members, and a finance and insurance forum’.
The Independent Garage Association has also been in discussions relating to training, investment and equipment allowing members to service and repair vehicles within their warranty periods, while the federation’s bodyshop division has undergone an identity change becoming the National Association of Bodyshops.
2011 has seen the NAMA – National Association of Motor Auctions – providing the sector with monthly market reports on auction sales, and RMI Petrol led a challenge which ultimately saw an average 14 per cent reduction across the UK on forecourts.
‘We shall be lobbying hard to prevent the Government increasing fuel tax by some eight pence per litre next year which would take £3.5bn out of the consumer’s pocket’, added Parlett.
