Three MPs visit NFDA dealers

Three different MPs visited NFDA dealer members on Friday 25 May 2018 as the NFDA Parliamentary Engagement Programme continues to raise awareness of the retail side of the automotive industry.

Joanna Cherry QC MP met with Eddie Hawthorne, managing director of Arnold Clark in Edinburgh; Imran Hussain MP visited Clive Brook, managing director of Clive Brook Volvo in Bradford; and Jeremy Lefroy MP was hosted by David Williamson, Lookers Mercedes-Benz franchise director, and Andrew Stevenson, Lookers Group people director, in Stafford.

Employment in the industry, with a focus on apprenticeships, priorities for Brexit as well as the new car market were the main topics discussed. In particular, it was highlighted to the MPs that although the industry supports the uptake of low emission vehicles, modern diesel and petrol cars still represent the most efficient fuel types for many drivers.

Clive Brook said, “The visit was a great opportunity to meet our local MP and show him how franchised dealerships work.

“We were pleased to showcase our apprentices and discuss the Volvo Apprenticeship Scheme which aims at fully training the apprentices to take on the role of qualified service and maintenance technician at the end of the three years.”

Sue Robinson, Director of the NFDA, commented on the visits, “It is positive to see the levels of engagement across government and MPs with the retail automotive industry. Franchised retailers have repeatedly proved their resilience and, going forward, it is crucial they can operate in stable conditions.

“NFDA will continue to work alongside its members to raise awareness of the retail automotive sector and ensure that the contributions our sector makes to the UK economy continue to be recognised.”