18 November 2010 Media Statement

NZTA’s charges another blow to struggling families

Labour’s Transport Safety spokesperson Darien Fenton says the Government’s decision to charge for access to basic vehicle information on the web will add another burden to families who are already struggling with increases to GST, ACC and car registration.

“Buying a car is one of the biggest outgoings for many families and it is critical they are able to access information that ensures that the car they buy is safe and legal,” says Ms Fenton.

“Currently, consumers can access free reports on cars through websites like CarJam. This has helped identify cars with dodgy odometers, cars with no warrant or registration and stolen vehicles being offered for sale to unsuspecting consumers.

“But the New Zealand Transport Agency’s decision to charge for basic vehicle information will add another unwelcome cost to the purchase of a car and will discourage consumers from checking whether the car they are buying is safe,” Darien Fenton said.

“This will impact not only on struggling families who may end up buying a dodgy car, but could also put lives at risk with unsafe vehicles on the road.”

Darien Fenton said she is also concerned at reports that the cost of gathering, storing and providing this information is already covered by motor registration fees, so that effectively the agency would be double-dipping with the proposed charges.

“The Minister of Transport needs to justify his decision and explain why he is prepared to see unsafe cars on the road.”

ENDS

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