Official importer attacks move to scrap restrictions

FLEETS may face serious problems having grey import vehicles serviced and repaired, a motor industry chief has warned. Robert Edmiston, chairman and chief executive of International Motors Group, which imports Subaru and Isuzu models to the UK, has attacked the Government's moves to scrap restrictions on grey imports coming into the UK, claiming it has ignored the investment and commitment shown by official importers in Britain.

Speaking at the 15th annual London Motor Conference, he warned motor industry delegates: 'We shall continue to co-operate with our importer colleagues in the European Community and provide warranty and maintenance to vehicles which meet European Type Approval standards purchased through official channels in their countries.

'However, you would not expect us to support the activities of grey importers. We have not spent so much money and done all this hard work merely to provide a free and ready-made parts and service network to support the sales of grey importers who have no long-term commitment to the manufacturer, the brand or the customer.'