Government response to call for evidence on MOTs

Friday 14 June 2024

The Department for Transport (DfT) has published two call for evidence outcomes relating to MOT testing that align with Logistics UK positions.

The DfT call for evidence on MOTs recommended extending the test periods of cars, vans and motorcycles from three to four years, however, Logistics UK’s members were against such proposals. Members raised significant concerns over road safety if an extension was to be implemented. Logistics UK consulted with members through Freight Council and Road Council meetings to build a case that reflected members views, which was raised in the business group’s submission. Logistics UK warned of the dangers the proposed changes could have and reflected this concern in the response. Logistics UK is delighted that DfT has made the decision to retain its current position, stating the first test will be three years after registration and every 12 months thereafter.

DfT has also separately published a call for evidence outcome on heavy vehicle testing review (HVTR). The call for evidence was seeking views on four potential options for changes to testing for HGVs and public service vehicles (PSVs) of operators in the earned recognition (ER) scheme. Having consulted with members through Freight and Road Council meetings, Logistics UK recommended that only option 1 (increasing the time between tests for ER operators) and option 2 (delegated testing) were of any value. As a result of responses, DfT will conduct further research into option 1, looking at the procedures to implement changes, the potential need for ER to be put on a statutory footing and other lines of inquiry to identify a final option.