IAAF to government: Energy support and tax cuts “worthless” without sector reassurances on MOT & MV-BER

28 September 2022  

Energy support packages and tax cuts will mean nothing to independent aftermarket businesses the IAAF has warmed, unless the sector gets reassurance on key issues such as MOT frequency and motor vehicle block exemption regulations (MVBER) along with specific legislation around these areas to provide stability.

Last week’s mini-budget saw Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng announced a raft of measures intended to stimulate growth. These included scrapping the 45% top rate of tax, cancelling the planned rise in corporation tax, and reversing the recently introduced rise in National Insurance. This came hot on the heels of the government’s Energy Bill Relief Scheme which sets the wholesale cost of energy for businesses.

According to IAAF Chief Executive Mark Field, the aftermarket sector needs wider government support and recognition so it can stay competitive: “Any plans to extend the current MOT test frequency or failure to uphold Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulations (MVBER) and update vehicle type approval regulations will render any business support packages worthless in the independent aftermarket.

“In a post-Brexit era, our lobbying in support of aftermarket businesses has intensified and part of this is to remind government that during the Covid-19 pandemic, the sector was allowed to stay open and played a critical role in keeping vehicles roadworthy. The aftermarket is a leader in the supply of mobility services, offering affordability and choice to millions of motorists for the service and maintenance of their vehicle.”

Mark added: “Through our work with UK AFCAR, we are collectively raising awareness of the sector ensuring that we are rightly considered across legislative and business policy making.”