§ Mr. Wickendenasked the Minister of Transport, in relation to MOT test stations, as at the latest practicable date, what is (a) the number operating which is equipped to pre SNI/75 standards, (b) the number finally approved and operating to SNI/75 standards, (c) the number not finally approved but which has been approved in principle, (d) the number 69W included in (c) which has not yet notified readiness for final inspection, (e) the number which has applied for approval in principle and which has been initially inspected and await approval in principle and (f) the number which has applied for approval in principle and await initial inspection; and whether he expects to complete final inspections by 31 December so that the new, more rigorous, standards for the MOT test may be implemented.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThe following is the information requested about MOT testing stations in the order set out in the question. It applies to the position as at 30 June 1979.
(a) 8,885 New applicants Conversions Total (b) 1,784 5,048 6,832 (c) 1,095 6,367 7,462 (d) 964 4,658 5,622 (e) 153 326 479 (f) 276 122 398 The Department will continue to carry out initial and final inspections as quickly as resources allow, but we may not be able to complete them all by 31 December. We are now considering the factors affecting the choice of a new date for implementing the revised standards of equipment for MOT testing stations. My right hon. Friend's decision as to a new date will not necessarily be related to the date by which it is expected that all final inspections will have been completed.