§ Mr. Greg Knightasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he is satisfied that garages which charge cut-price fees for carrying out MOT tests on motor vehicles are testing such vehicles in a proper manner; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThere is no evidence that MOT testing at reduced fees has had any appreciable effect on standards. We shall continue to keep a close watch on the situation.
My officials regularly check the standards of all garages authorised to conduct MOT tests, and those charging less than the prescribed fee render themselves liable to more frequent checking than might otherwise be the case. Authorisation may be withdrawn if examiners or testers are not maintaining the required standards.
§ Mr. Greg Knightasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he intends to take any steps to require all garages carrying out MOT testing of vehicles to charge the full fee therefor; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. ChalkerI have no plans to amend the present legislation, which does not prevent garages from charging less than the prescribed maximum fee.