The SMMT is hoping for public money to promote the 2006 British International Motor Show following the decision to move it to London’s ExCel centre.

Last November, AM was the first to reveal that the show’s organiser was considering cutting its ties with Birmingham NEC, which has hosted the biennial event for three decades.

The SMMT and carmakers assessed bids from ExCel, Earls Court and the NEC, before voting for a 10-year contract with ExCel.

London Mayor Ken Livingstone has applauded the move. In 2004, the show received a £1.2m grant through the Regional Development Agency.