Ann McKechin MP encourages Glasgow’s motorists to take part in the car scrappage scheme before £2000 discount ends 

Figures released show that more than three quarters of the budget for the Labour Government’s hugely successful scrappage scheme has been used up by individuals and families boosting UK car sales and helping the car industry through the downturn.

Labour's popular scrappage scheme has successfully protected vital skilled manufacturing jobs and supported industry economic output through a very difficult time.  Funding for less than 82,000 new vehicles orders is left for consumers to take advantage of under the scheme, as it nears its end. 

Ann McKechin MP said: 

“Time is running out for you to get a great deal on a new car by trading in your old one.  If you have been thinking about taking advantage of the scrappage scheme then now is the time. 

“Labour’s car scrappage scheme has kept our car industry going during these tough times and offered great value for motorists. It shows how the Labour Government is investing through difficult times to give real help to people and protect jobs and businesses. 

“We didn’t leave the industry to sink or swim during this difficult global downturn as the Tories did in the 1990s.” 

Lord Mandelson, Labour’s Business Secretary said: 

“I’m pleased to see that the scheme has been taken up by so many people, supporting our automotive manufacturers through a very difficult time. With limited orders as we near the close of scrappage there is a risk of disappointment for car buyers. I would urge people who are still keen on taking part to put their orders in as soon as possible as time is running out. 

“Industry figures have reflected the success the scheme has already had, boosting both car sales over the past few months and maintaining jobs in car production. We expect the impact of the scheme to continue to be felt into 2010 as deliveries will continue after the scheme closes.”

The UK scheme, with £400m from Government and matched funding from manufacturers, is intended to provide immediate support on a short-term basis to boost the car industry and its supply chain during the downturn. It has also removed older vehicles from the road and encouraged consumers to invest in new, safer, and potentially more environmentally friendly models. 

By 14th January 318,628 new vehicle orders were taken under the scrappage scheme since it was announced in the Budget in April.