The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has claimed the outcome of this week's general election in the UK could have a significant bearing on the future of automotive technician training in the years ahead.

IMI chief executive officer Steve Nash has issued an open response to a letter sent to both the Conservative and Labour parties regarding their stance on vehicle technician licensing.

At present, anyone can work on a car commercially without qualification or training in the UK. However, IMI is keen to see the introduction of new legislation that would call for all professionals to hold suitable qualifications before being able to provide their services to the public.

Mr Nash argued: "The situation we find ourselves in is unsustainable. Businesses who invest in training cannot continue to compete with those who don’t in the face of rapid technological advances. This makes the licensing of skilled technicians more important than ever before, both for safety of road users and the protection of businesses."

In response to proposals for tighter regulation, the Conservatives stated they would consider the advantages of such a scheme but would not support proposals if they were contrary to  the party's commitment on "de-regulation and reducing industry costs".

Meanwhile, Labour stated they would support any plans that help to tackle the issue of poor training and quality of service, as well as working to help employers to "drive up standards and build stronger training routes within the sector".

It is therefore an interest conundrum facing the automotive industry at present, as both of the main political parties have a very different stance on this important issue on vehicle technician training and accreditation. However, when the public take to the polls tomorrow, the outcome of this difficult and contentious issue will likely be decided.