SMMT News

Motor Industry welcomes renewal of Block Exemption regulation

02 May 2002 #SMMT News
  • European Commission extends rules until 2010
  • Detailed discussion to follow when full text published

The motor industry today welcomed the European Commission’s

decision to renew the Block Exemption regulation and will be carefully examining

the details outlined in the draft proposals.

The rules set out the relationship between manufacturers and

dealers and ensure that there is a competitive market for consumers. They also

require a network of trained sales staff and technicians to be easily accessible

across the European Union.

Christopher Macgowan, SMMT chief executive commented, ‘After

the most rigorous of investigations, the Commissioners have concluded that motor

vehicles are unique products that require special arrangements for sales, service

and repair’.

‘Any changes to the current rules could have a dramatic impact

on the level of service to consumers. Manufacturers are keen to ensure that

there will be no loss of local dealers, that there is a reliable network of

factory trained technicians to support the sale and servicing of vehicles and

that expert staff are available to provide consumers with the service they demand’.

The SMMT will study the draft proposals carefully and submit

detailed comments to the Commission in due course.

ends

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