George Osborne has announced a review of the MOT frequency, proposing that the first MOT for cars and motorbikes be increased from three years to four.
In his budget speech, the Chancellor said: “We will consult on extending the deadline for new cars and motorbikes to have their first MOT test from 3 years to 4 years, which would save motorists over £100m a year”.
This suggestion has not gone down well with the trade. The RMI’s Independent Garage Association Director Stuart James said: “The government seems to take the view that the MOT is a burden on motorists – we think that motorists deserve more credit than that. Road safety is a priority for them and their families and they understand that roadworthiness testing of vehicle is an important part of making our roads among the safest in Europe.”
The Chancellor didn’t specify when the consultation might start, or how wide reaching it might be. However, it is notable that the wording of the speech excluded vans as it is has been noted in previous frequency reviews that vehicles in MOT class VII generally lead a much harder life and need more frequent checks.
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