The scrappage scheme: an alternative view

ONE of the region's MPs has called on motorists from across Sefton and West Lancashire to cash in their old banger for up to £2,000 off their new motor - before it's too late.

Life On Cars has featured views from those opposed to the scrappage scheme, who argue that it often leads to valuable classic cars being destroyed instead of the "bangers" it is intended to target.

But David Borrow, MP for South Ribble, said he was calling on motorists to take part in the Government's scrappage scheme, which allows motorists to trade in older motors for scrap in return for a discount on new cars, before the programme runs out of the funding allocated to it.

“Time is running out for you to get a great deal. If youve thought about trading in your old car now is the time to do it. The scheme is their to help so make the most of it now before the funding runs out,” he said.

“The Government's scrappage scheme has boosted our car industry at a time when it needs it most. Its a great example of how the Government's schemes are helping protect people and business through the recession. I'm very proud we didnt leave the industry to sink or swim as the Tories did in 1990s and would do today.”

The scrappage scheme was instigated by the Government last March to boost new car sales, including those built in the North West such as the Vauxhall Astra, Jaguar X-Type and Land Rover Freelander.

Under the scheme motorists are encouraged to trade in their cars, which can be any model registered before November 2000 on a 'V' registration, to be scrapped, and in return receive a discount of £2,000 off a brand new model.

Although the Government only pledges £1,000 to each scrappage deal, with the rest of the initial £2,000 being match-funded by the manufacturer, some car makers have been offering discounts of up to £6,000.

Mr Borrow said that as of last Thursday (January 14) 320,000 new vehicle orders were taken under the scheme since it was announced, and that there is now there is only funding for 82,000 new vehicles left.