§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Transport what inspections are carried out by staff in his Department on garages in Scotland which are authorised to carry out tests and issue test certificate No. VT 20.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeBefore authorised examiners are appointed to conduct MOT tests, checks are made to ensure that their garages comply with the Department's requirements for equipment, premises and staff. Testers to be employed have to be nominated by the authorised examiner and are required to undergo an approved training course.
Authorised examiners must maintain records of tests conducted. The Department makes periodic inspections to check standards of testing and procedures and investigates complaints about individual test results. If there is doubt about a garage's performance, formal or incognito checks may be carried out. Authorisations may be withdrawn if examiners or testers are not meeting the required standards.
These procedures apply throughout Great Britain.