garages and car rental agencies can remain open

Dated:

March 24, 2020

| Author: Illia Verpraet

As of today, March 24, the government has taken drastic measures to ensure that all who can stay at home in order to slow the spread of the infection.

People should only leave home to buy basic necessities, for some form or exercise, for medical needs, and to get to and from work, but only when it absolutely cannot be done from home .

The government has therefore published a list of businesses that must close, which can be viewed here. Among them are all retail businesses, including auction houses and car showrooms, but excluding garages and car rentals.

Cabinet Minister Michael Gove said in an interview with the BBC: “Garages can be left open, and this is both for essential maintenance of cars and to make sure they are safe on the road. ., but again, I urge people to exercise self-control. and people shouldn’t be outside unless they need it for their jobs. “

Gerry Keaney, Managing Director of Rental and Leasing Association BVRLA, said: “A lot of people think of car rental as the car they pick up at the airport on their annual vacation. , about half of all vehicle rental transactions are with companies that support the transport of people and goods.

“In these difficult times, car rental is focused on its most important customers. At present, our members provide cars to police forces, district nurses and Ministry of Defense sites; from vans to plumbers and gas engineers; from refrigerated trucks to food distributors and minibuses. schools with special educational needs.

Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), said: “Aftermarket workshops and their technicians will play an important role in ensuring that critical vehicles can continue to operate safely and efficiently in these difficult times.”

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