NBRA responds to Green Paper

The National Body Repair Association (NBRA) has published its response to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy’s Green Paper – ‘Building our Industrial Strategy’.

The government document detailed 10 ‘pillars’ that had been identified in order to ‘improve living standards and economic growth’. Amongst the pillars, the Green Paper outlined the government’s plans to develop skills by introducing a new system of technical education, focusing on science, technology, engineering and maths skills.

In response, NBRA highlighted the shortage of skilled technicians within the bodyshop sector, stressing the safety implications. The association put forward the argument for the provision of specific apprenticeships designed for prospective vehicle technicians, as well as more accessible re-training options for existing technicians.

In addition, the government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting electric vehicle technology. NBRA advised the government to recognise the importance of implementing the correct infrastructure to meet the demands of an increasing electric vehicle market, as well as providing incentives for body repair businesses to reduce their own emissions.

NBRA also used the Green Paper response to raise the issue of late payments, encouraging the government to give sufficient powers to the incoming Small Business Commissioner to hold large businesses to account over payment practices.

Jason Moseley, executive director, NBRA commented, ‘It is vitally important that the voice of bodyshops is heard at government level. This Green Paper touches on some key areas potentially affecting our members and our role is to make ministers aware of the impact on our sector and, ultimately, consumers.’