IAAF calls for further automotive support

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has warned that recently announced energy support packages will not be enough on their own to safeguard the future of independent repairers.

Chief executive Mark Field has said that businesses will still face an uncertain future unless sector specific legislation, such as the current MOT frequency and motor vehicle block exemption regulations (MVBER), are maintained and strengthened.

UK Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng unveiled a massive fiscal shake-up recently, alongside an energy bill relief scheme expected to halve costs during the winter.

But Field is keen to see the aftermarket sector receive wider support and recognition in the legislative agenda, to ensure effective competition remains possible for the UK automotive aftermarket.

He said: “Any plans to extend the current MOT test frequency or failure to uphold Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulations (MVBER) and update vehicle type approval regulations will render any business support packages worthless in the independent aftermarket.

“In a post-Brexit era, our lobbying in support of aftermarket businesses has intensified and part of this is to remind government that during the Covid-19 pandemic, the sector was allowed to stay open and played a critical role in keeping vehicles roadworthy. The aftermarket is a leader in the supply of mobility services, offering affordability and choice to millions of motorists for the service and maintenance of their vehicle. Through our work with UK AFCAR, we are collectively raising awareness of the sector ensuring that we are rightly considered across legislative and business policy making.”