Last Friday, NFDA, joined by Steven Eagell, Chief Executive of the Steven Eagell Group, welcomed Mike Reader, Labour MP for Northampton South, to the group’s Toyota dealership for a discussion on the challenges currently facing automotive retailers. The visit came shortly after the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget and centred on several pressing industry concerns. Among the topics raised were the sector’s worries over the proposed EV Pay Per Mile scheme, the industry’s positive reception of increased investment in the UK’s charging infrastructure and ongoing issues surrounding mileage fraud. The implications of the recent Supreme Court judgement and the Financial Conduct Authority’s redress scheme consultation were also key points of discussion. During his tour of the dealership, Mr Reader met with a number of apprentices, hearing first-hand how young people within the business are progressing at pace. Their stories underscored the importance of automotive apprenticeships in driving future skills and supporting long-term sector growth. Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the NFDA, said: “Engaging with MPs and communicating the key issues impacting our sector is vital for NFDA’s ongoing policy direction. This meeting marks the last visit of our parliamentary engagement programme for 2025 and we remain committed to continuing this work into 2026. Our upcoming parliamentary dinner in January 2026 will provide another key platform for dealers to make their voices heard in Westminster.”