Consultation on HGV testing exemptions

A consultation proposing the removal of a number of exemptions from the Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) roadworthiness testing scheme was published today by Transport Minister, Paul Clark.

The consultation proposes the removal of annual testing exemptions covering 10 categories of vehicle.  The Department is reviewing the list of exemptions because the number of exempt vehicles is growing. This raises concerns about road safety as well as questions of fairness between operators.  The UK also has to ensure compatibility between the list of exempt vehicle classes and EU law on testing.

Paul Clark said: "Britain has the joint safest roads in the world but if we are to maintain that position we need to ensure that the vehicles using our roads meet the highest possible standards.  The annual roadworthiness tests for lorries and other larger vehicles are vital in helping us to meet this challenge by identifying faults before they cause an accident."