GEM Motoring Assist has revealed that over half of UK drivers are against Government plans to change the annual MOT test.

A new survey, commissioned by GEM, reveals that 52% of motorists want to keep the current annual MOT system and do not agree with Government proposals to make it biennial. Only 26% said they would want it to change and 22% were unsure.

The survey of 3,000 UK motorists reveals that drivers would be worried about leaving a two year gap between MOT tests; with nearly 50% being concerned about potential mechanical failure.

The survey also shows that more than half of UK drivers believe that the change in the law would see car maintenance standards deteriorate and feel reassured of their car’s safety and roadworthiness with the current system.

GEM chief executive David Williams said: “The results prove that having such a regular service gives the public peace of mind when it comes to driving a safe and reliable vehicle.

“We know that drivers rarely check their cars themselves and leaving it two years will mean we will have unsafe and sub-standard cars on our roads. The proposed biennial MOT system will undoubtedly have a negative impact on road safety and put more lives at risk unnecessarily every year.”

The survey also shows that 44% of drivers believe the MOT law change would have a negative impact on road safety in the UK.

“Road safety should never be compromised and we are fierce supporters of the ProMOTe campaign to lobby the government against these plans,” Williams concluded.