The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) posted a total of 313,912 units sold in March, a 30.5 percent drop compared to the same month of 2008. UK registrations in the first three months of the year were 29.7 compared to last year, translating into about 200,000 less vehicles sold.
"March new-car registrations are a barometer of confidence in the economy, from businesses and consumers alike. The fall in the market shows that government needs to do more to boost confidence," Paul Everitt, SMMT CEO was quoted as saying by the aforementioned source.
As for the UK government, they seem to apply the established way of thinking, which tells them to "Be British, gentlemen, be British!" even if the boat is sinking. Even if an aid package intended to the local manufacturers is in place, after receiving the EU green light in mid March, a decision regarding a possible scrappage incentive to help the buyers may be postponed until April the 22nd.
Today, SMMT got help from UK motoring magazine publishers Haymarket Media Group and Dennis Publishing. Together, they ask for a 2,000 pounds bonus in a trade-in scheme. The magazines will address an open letter to the government and they are also urging readers to sign for a petition to help convince the state officials.
"I think this proposal is a win-win for the government. It would be good for sales and it would be good for jobs in the UK. This is not just about manufacturing, I would suggest that the vast number of people employed in the industry work as salesmen or technicians, or in distribution and finance in towns and cities all over the country, " Robin Woolcock, VW UK told jus-auto.com.
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