The introduction of new motoring service reforms by the government have been welcomed by the Freight Transport Association (FTA).

Long-awaited practices to allow qualified experts in the private sector to conduct Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) tests have been welcomed by the body, with the Department for Transport now in the process of securing support for these changes.

The shift in policy will significantly affect how the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and the Vehicle Certification Agency operate in the years ahead and could have far-reaching implications for fleet operators across the UK.

FTA head of licensing policy and compliance information James Firth said: “We are pleased that government has committed to have a proper look at allowing non-government employees to examine the LGV annual roadworthiness test – many FTA members have been asking for this for some years.

“Our members are all agreed that standards and safety must come first, but if done in the right way this could offer tremendous flexibility for the industry.”

Overall, it is believed that this opening up of the tests to private sector experts could have lasting benefits for the freight industry as a whole, ensuring new entrants to the profession are more easily able to secure testing dates to begin their career.

Tackling the issues that have resulted in a much-publicised driver shortage for UK hauliers remains a top priority for the FTA and this latest change in policy could be a prominent measure in achieving this aim.