HC Deb 15 March 2004 vol 419 cc10-1W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answers of 8 March 2004,Official Report, columns 1237–38W, on computerised MOT tests, what benefits were expected prior to tendering, of computerisation of the MOT test; and if he will make a statement on the disadvantages consequent on late delivery of the ordered system. [161497]

Mr. Jamieson

The main benefits of computerising MOT testing are expected to beImproved road safety and environmental protection by raising testing standards and enabling increased motorists' compliance with annual testing requirements. Increased consumer protection by improving the consistency of testing, reducing unnecessary MOT test failures and related repairs. Reduced crime and fraud by preventing fraudulent or unauthorised issue of test certificates and eliminating forgeries. Modernised and more efficient administration of the scheme through networking communications enabling real time access to testing information and results, reducing the compliance burden on MOT stations, and enabling delivery of an electronic vehicle relicensing service to motorists.

Late delivery of the computerised service will mean that the current manual procedures will need to be retained for longer than envisaged.

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport pursuant to the answers of 8 March 2004,Official Report, columns 1237–38W, on computerised MOT tests, under what circumstances the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency could terminate the contract. [161498]

Mr. Jamieson

VOSA could seek to terminate its contract with Siemens Business Services (SBS):

  1. 1. for material default by SBS which is either not capable of remedy or is not remedied within a specified period depending on the breach;
  2. 2. if SBS is or is near being insolvent;
  3. 3. if SBS undergoes a change of control which is not in VOSA's or DFT's interest;
  4. 4. if there are prolonged serious problems as a result of events outside VOSA's or SBS' control and alternative arrangements cannot be agreed.

VOSA may also terminate without cause. In this case it would have to pay compensation to SBS covering its legitimate costs and for some loss of profit.