Repairers are pressing ahead for action against insurance companies on anti-competitive measures, encouraged by the reaction of one MP who agreed to act as a focal point for the campaign.

Robert Hadfield, managing director of independent body repair consultant Autobody Projects, said the campaign was focusing on the VAT exemption enjoyed by insurance-owned body repair centres.

“The plan is to get around 50 MPs involved and co-ordinated to lobby the Government,” said Mr Hadfield. “For the first time we have gone straight to the top, instead of being hopeful of lobbying success from trade associations. We now have someone who is willing to coordinate the energy across all relevant parties.”

Leading body repairers are set to meet MPs at the end of April/start of May to further discussions.