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THE government has launched a consultation to decide whether or not pre-1960 cars and bikes should be exempt from the annual MOT test.
On the basis that owners of classic bikes and cars are more likely to look after them properly, that they're involved in very few accidents and account for a tiny percentage of the vehicles on the road, plus the fact that much of the modern MoT is not suitable for older vehicles anyway, the idea is to leave the responsibility for checking they're well maintained up to their owners. The evidence shows that classic vehicles are more likely to pass the MoT than average.
Under the proposals, the test for pre-1960 cars and bikes would be ditched but there would still be a legal requirement to make sure they're safe and 'in a proper condition' to be used on the road.
Roads Minister Mike Penning said: "We are committed to reducing regulation which places a financial burden on motorists without providing significant overall benefits. Owners of classic cars and motorbikes are enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well - they don't need to be told to look after them, they're out there every weekend checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.
"That is why I am today putting forward proposals to scrap the MoT test for these vehicles - this will result in savings for the Government and for motorists."
The public consultation will run until January 26, and can be found here - http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations.