NFDA 2017 General Election manifesto

“A Free Trade Agreement, easy and affordable access to finance, a national retail strategy and a fair and transparent fuel policy are the main policies outlined in the NFDA manifesto ahead of the 2017 General Election”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle dealers in the UK.

The NFDA manifesto outlines key priorities for the UK ahead of the 2017 General Election.

NFDA calls on the Government for:

A supportive and open UK business environment and open trade with the EU

Affordable and accessible finance for both businesses and consumers

A focused national retail strategy

A fair and transparent fuel policy

General industrial support, which includes delegated testing for Heavy Goods Vehicles and improving the UK’s road network and condition of roads

Robinson continued, “The success of the UK automotive retailing sector has been significantly supported by the UK’s membership of the single market and customs union. It is imperative that Brexit does not undermine the strength of our industry - free trade between the UK and the EU must be a priority.
“Government should not underestimate the significance of the UK’s large retail industry and its economic contribution, especially in the short-medium term following Brexit. The UK’s current retail strategy, which was published in 2013, should be reassessed and redeveloped.

“To reduce emissions, the Government must be open to working with our industry. Fuel policy must be proactive and not retrospectively punish those who previously bought diesel cars in good faith. The impact of all types of air pollution must be considered, these include: building and light pollution, public vehicles, such as buses and taxis, and aviation. The Government must provide financial support to those who want to purchase low emission vehicles and commit to improving the national charging infrastructure.

“We are looking forward to working with the new Government and ensuring that there is continued support for the retail automotive industry in the UK.”