Scrappage proposals come under fire

Proposals to introduce a scrappage scheme have come under fire for being ill conceived and environmentally flawed.

Automotive Distribution Federation chief executive Brian Spratt said scrappage schemes in other countries have distorted the market, bringing forward sales but causing slumps later.

“The proposals also ignore the simple fact that any cash payment will be of little practical value to low-income motorists, who will still not be able to afford to purchase new vehicles, let alone more fuel efficient or cleaner vehicles, with any money provided,” he said.

Spratt also questioned the environmental credentials of scrappage schemes.

“There are many commentators who clearly feel the resources used to produce new cars and the consequent environmental impact exceeds the environmental damage of the cars they replace.

“Surely it would be better to enforce motorists’ responsibility to maintain cars properly? That would positively impact, road safety, the environment and keep thousands of technicians and support staff in employment; definitely a must in today’s economic climate,” he added.

“It’s a misuse of taxpayers’ pounds to purchase and crush perfectly serviceable vehicles, and it’s a nonsense to think it will meet any long term goal of boosting new car sales. As a sensible idea it is a non-runner,” he said.