NFDA is pleased to announce that we have received a detailed response from Hilary Benn MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, following our recent correspondence on challenges facing the Northern Ireland motor industry. In his letter, Secretary of State Benn addressed two key issues of importance to our members: vehicle type approvals and benefit-in-kind taxation for company vehicles. He acknowledged the concerns from Northern Ireland dealerships and consumers about limited vehicle choice and confirmed that the Government intends to legislate to mandate that vehicles placed on the market in Great Britain must hold dual GB and EU type approvals. This step will allow the same vehicle to be sold seamlessly in both Great Britain and Northern Ireland. A Written Ministerial Statement on this decision was published on 18 December 2025, and the Department for Transport has launched a call for evidence to explore why some manufacturers have not adopted dual approval and to consider options for addressing these challenges. This consultation remains open until 12 February 2026, and NFDA members are encouraged to participate. The letter also confirmed the introduction of a temporary easement for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), mitigating the rising benefit-in-kind tax resulting from new emission standards. Importantly, this easement applies to Northern Ireland irrespective of consultation outcomes in Great Britain, ensuring consistency for businesses and drivers across the UK. Together, these measures aim to create a more effective single UK market for vehicles, preserving consumer choice and providing flexibility for car dealerships. The NFDA welcomes the Government’s proactive engagement and will continue to advocate for the interests of drivers and businesses in Northern Ireland.