A bid to drive the UK Government to introduce mandatory licensing of motor retailers is being prepared by consumer protection groups who are concerned about high levels of complaints in the marketplace.

But there are many questions still to be answered, such as who would oversee and enforce licensing of car sales and repairs, and how it could be funded.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute has revealed in its 2024 manifesto that it will call on the next UK Government to legislate for specific controls on motor retail, because its members – trading standards officers – are worried about the volume of complaints, particularly concerning used cars and vehicle repairs.

It also anticipates rising levels of issues as motorists adapt to electric vehicles.

The proposal in the manifesto is that the licencing scheme would be accompanied by minimum industry standards, accreditation requirements, and mandatory Consumer Codes.