THE REQUIREMENT to have an annual MOT test for pre-war cars may be scrapped following a meeting held between Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, Conservative MP for East Yorkshire Greg Knight, who is the Parliamentary group chairman, and Mike Penning, the transport minister.
After the meeting Mr Knight said: "Accidents involving historic vehicles are extremely rare and the majority of owners are meticulous in keeping their vehicles in good condition. Having to have an annual MOT test for a vehicle which may only travel 100 miles in a year is an unnecessary bureaucratic hurdle".
Minister Mike Penning commented, "The MOT is important in helping to ensure that cars are safe for use on our roads. However, we need to be sure that the regulations we impose are having their intended effect. That is why I am going to look at whether there is a case for exempting older historic and classic vehicles from the MOT test. These vehicles are treasured by their owners who want to ensure they are well maintained, and in most cases they use them irregularly. I have asked my officials to look at the evidence on this issue and we will carry out a full consultation to allow interested groups to submit views".
Mr Knight added, "If these older vehicles are exempted from the MOT test, owners will still be legally required to ensure that their cars are safe, roadworthy and in a proper condition to be on the road. The Minister has made it clear that the exemption will not relate to historic vehicles that are used commercially."