The Department for Transport have decided to keep the set price for a standard MoT fee at £54.85 in 2012.

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has expressed its disappointment at the MoT price freeze.

Stuart James, IGA director, said: "The majority of MoT test stations are small to medium sized businesses that are currently battling with increasing costs and declining revenue.

"The increase in cost would allow these already struggling businesses to recoup some of the revenue."

James also believes the MoT costs are complicated further as many garages discount the maximum fee in order to draw business into their garage.

He said: "Many of the smaller garages then follow suit in order to keep up with competition putting further pressure on an already ailing profit margin."

The IGA believes that a standard MoT fee should be enforced throughout the trade to allow smaller businesses to compete with larger ones without facing "financial hardship".