THE motor industry responded to a damning report into used car safety at a conference organised by the Institute of Trading Standards Administration (ITSA). The institute, which published its 'Coffins on Wheels' report in June, invited all firms involved in the used car trade to attend the event, which took place in Warwickshire.

Fleets were warned in the report that they could have their vehicles seized or crushed by trading standards officers if they were not fit for the road, including having a valid MoT certificate. New European legislation allows trading standards officers to visit forecourts and carry out safety audits on vehicles and either take cars off sale or order them to be confiscated or destroyed.

Stewart Whyte, director of the Association of Car Fleet Operators, said used car safety was an important issue, but pointed out that very few fleets would be involved in retailing their own vehicles through the trade.