Mr. Robert AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which manufacturers and importers have given him commitments in respect of the introduction of visible vehicle identification numbers; and if he will detail those commitments.
§ Mr. Charles WardleNo specific commitments have been made to the Home Office by motor manufacturers on this issue. However, following representations from the Home Office and the police, a number of manufacturers and importers—including BMW, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Rover, Saab and Volvo—have introduced visible vehicle identification number plates into some or all of their models. A number of others—including Peugeot and Vauxhall—are etching the vehicle identifica-tion number into the front and rear window glass.
Information provided by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders in March 1993 showed that, in 1992, visible vehicle identification numbers were provided on 49 per cent. of vehicle models—of which 61 per cent. were on the structure of the vehicle and the rest etched into the window glass.