The motor industry has become the centrepiece of a £1.7m campaign launched by the Office of Fair Trading to promote its consumer codes approval scheme.

The SMMT’s New Car Code of Practice, setting minimum standards of consumer care from car manufacturers, was the first code to gain full approval.

As a result, the OFT has decided that because of the high profile of the car retail sector, it deserves to be at the heart of its publicity campaign.

Penny Boys, OFT executive director, says: “The launch is a demonstration of our commitment to promoting the scheme, and our ongoing support to those code sponsors and businesses who meet its requirements.”

Promotional material is being distributed to petrol stations, and will be supported by television and press ad campaigns.

“We are delighted that the OFT has chosen the motor industry to raise awareness of their wider codes of practice campaign,” says Christopher Macgowan, SMMT chief executive.

“Carmakers have demonstrated there is a genuine will to improve customer care and we hope our lead is followed.”

A campaign in support of the bodyshop code of practice of the Vehicle Builders and Repairers Association, the second to be approved, will begin in January.