Garage owner puts independents’ case to PM

The e-bulletin of the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation quotes a story in the Oxford Mail, where Prime Minister and Witney MP David Cameron has been told of the need for regulation in the independent motoring trade by a businessman from his constituency.

Graham Cox, of Ernigrip Motors, who owns garages in Enstone and Middle Barton, said: “We spoke about how the motor industry has suffered during the recession and how the large multi-national chains are pricing independent garages out of the market. “I would like to see the industry regulated, because at the moment anyone can open a garage,” said Mr. Cox. “There should be regular checks for insurance, fire safety and to see that mechanics are fully qualified and receive on-going training.”