THE motor trade feels the pinch on new and second-hand sales, they may not sell so many new cars, but it is in maintenance, which could actually see a rise in business at their service departments, as some motorists will be needing their first MOT carried out for some years.

There is a tendency for many to buy new within two to three years and avoid the test. We should be training up more motor technicians, the main dealers are making an absolute fortune as many foreign manufacturers install problems into the new vehicles they build, the vehicles are only reliable for a few years without simple yet expensive repairs turning up.

That is a fact, as many minor parts used in their vehicles have a fault or two, which incurs computer diagnostics to supposedly investigate into any kind of repair, and often meaning a very expensive trip to the main dealers of the specific vehicles. Dirty tricks like these will be coming back to haunt these manufacturing companies and their main dealers in time. Gone are the days of fix it yourself or take it to John round the corner.

Oh, for a British motor company making simple vehicles for basic usage. A missed opportunity in our manufacturing history, it ain’t how it looks, it’s being a practical product which is most important. Bring back the Morris Minor, with a few modifications. I ask you, do we need a Jaguar that does 200mph? I rest my case.

PAUL MORSE Cheney Manor Road Swindon