/>The RMI’s initiative is to be called Trust My Garage. Speaking at a gala dinner hosted by the RMI on the 21st October, Paul Williams, chairman of the organisation, said that there will inevitably be conflict with existing schemes: “The RMI is supportive of the Motor Codes initiative and give [Motor Codes director] Chris Mason and his people all the support we can.

/>“However, we believe as a trade body, we need to do more and that is exactly what the RMI is doing with its new ‘consumer initiative’ which you will see very shortly” added Willi

/>Motor Codes, established three years ago by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reacted angrily to the news. In a statement issued to Aftermarket Network the organisation said: “We are saddened by this very unexpected change of course by the RMI. We have been working in partnership with them, other associations and government since 2005 on the development, launch and operation of the motor industry code for service and repair. Over the last two years, the service and repair code has successfully set a minimum standard of customer service and consumer protection across franchised and independent garages, delivering peace of mind for motorists and a robust self-regulation for its 6,500 subscribers. This will not impact on the work of the Codes or Motor Codes.

/>Trust my Garage will be rolled out ‘in the coming weeks’ according to the