§ Mr. Bevanasked the Secretary of State for Transport what progress he has made in his discussions with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders about arrangements for importers of cars to have prompt access to type approval information.
§ Mr. David HowellI have agreed a voluntary code of practice with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders under which type approval information will be provided, by manufacturers, to individuals and independent traders importing cars. This is designed to help overcome difficulties when licensing such imported cars for the first time.
The Government are concerned to ensure that all vehicles used in this country meet our safety and environmental standards through compliance with the appropriate type approval requirements. But it is also anxious that the purchasers' choice of supply should not be impeded. The arrangements set out in the code of practice are designed to enable both these goals to be achieved.
The code will operate from 31 May on a trial basis and will be reviewed in conjunction with the SMMT towards the end of the year.
When I am satisfied that these new arrangements are working effectively and will continue to do so, I will review the terms of the personal import exemption from national type approval.