EU scraps plans for MOT-style tests on Caravans

Britain’s caravan users breathed a sigh of relief after EU plans to subject their trailers to MOT-style tests were scrapped.

Transport chiefs in Brussels wanted new laws imposing the annual road worthiness checks on caravans and light trailers.

The controversial move was led by German MEP Werner Kuhn who complained about rusting vehicles left in “barns” and covered in “chicken feathers”.

But the UK’s Caravan Club rubbished his claims and argued the new charge would leave responsible British families facing bills of hundreds of pounds.

The group argued that as many as 200,000 of its members would be left out of pocket and that the UK’s tourism economy would be badly damaged.

The European Parliament in Strasbourg confirmed this week that caravans will not be subject to the new testing, although the decision still needs to be rubber-stamped in March.

Tony Hall, Director of Marketing for the Caravan Club, said it was a huge win for hard-up British holidaymakers.

The measure would have affected many of the estimated 510,000 caravans in current use in the UK, with only the smallest two-berth models excluded.

Mr Hall said: “The Club was delighted to have led the way in lobbying against this vital issue and we believe that our efforts were instrumental in achieving this decision, although a final confirmation vote is due to take place at the end of March.

“This demonstrates The Club’s ongoing commitment to its members who can continue to enjoy their leisure time without unnecessary financial and administrative burdens.”