Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) has revealed that finance provided for new car purchases fell 6% by value and 9% by volume in March compared to the same period last year.

There was, however, strong growth in funding provided for new business cars against weak demand from the consumer sector.

Used car finance was down 7% by value and 11% by volume in March compared with the same month a year ago. Both business and consumer demand was weaker than in March 2004.