In a recent review of MOT testing and frequency it was decided to leave the current annual MOT test as is but as a result of the views and opinions consulted on, it is clear that there needs to be tighter control on MOT test standards and quality.

Data from VOSA highlighted that more than 25% of vehicles tested in 2010-2011 had defects that were missed or incorrectly assessed by the MOT test centres and 1 in 8 vehicles were being incorrectly assessed. In particular, several initiatives have been put forward:

1. Release data from VOSA on MOT centre performance data

2. Gain insight from motorists of MOT test centre service levels, in a style similar to online review sites

3. Expand current industry standards to include the MOT test

4. Encourage motorists to look out for mileage on MOT certificates

5. Introduction of ‘under cover’ motorists to improve performance

The proposals, currently under consultation, could see funding on local transport improvement schemes from new roads, pedestrian routes and railways being decided and funded by local authorities, freeing them from central Government control.

In return for devolution, the Government would need evidence of real value for money and accountability in the decision making process.

Road safety charity Brake has revealed that from 2007 to 2011, the number of traffic police officers has reduced by 11.6% compared to 1.8% for general police officer reductions. The figures were taken from 43 Police forces.

Research by the IAM concludes that 82% of rural fatal accidents occur on single carriageway roads compared to 18% on motorways and dual-carriageways.

Young drivers are most at risk where the test doesn’t include skills such as high speed corners, inclement weather and overtaking manoeuvres on single carriageway A-roads.

The move, which is hoped will mean learner drivers get a better understanding of driving theory, means that the once published questions will no longer be published and learners will have to rely on gaining a fuller knowledge of theory rather than relying on learning which answer is correct for each question.

In addition the new theory test books have new exercises and revision support with new sections for motorcyclists and a free e-book for car drivers.

The report, based on existing traffic models, shows that core London routes will slow to an average speed of 12mph during July and August. The opening ceremony of the event even clashes with the busiest holiday getaway day of the year, July 27th, when traffic levels are already 30% higher.

In addition the first event after the ceremony is the Men’s Road Cycling Race which is scheduled to close roads in South West London and Surrey.

Transport for London’s decision to two-wheeled road users to use bus lanes in London also brings with it some element of risk warns the IAM.

They have released some tips for riders when using bus lanes

Motorcyclists:

Always assume that other road users may not have seen you

When travelling in a straight line position yourself where you easily seen – don’t sit out next to the traffic beside you, or hug the kerb. You get lost to sight

Be seen. Big blocks of bright colour are better than broken up or patterned clothing, which effectively camouflages you. And always make sure you have your headlight on

Give other lane users time to realise you are there. Give cyclists space and time to avoid startling them

Don’t use the extra space in the bus lane to unnecessarily increase your speed

Be careful of traffic crossing the bus lane at junctions – both from side roads, and out of the queue on your right. They aren’t looking for you – they’re looking for a big bus

Look well ahead to avoid needing to make sudden changes in direction for potholes etc – bus lanes tend to have uneven surfaces

Cyclists:

Always assume that other road users may not have seen you

Claim the lane. Ride in the middle of the lane, moving to allow others past as needed, but never ‘hug’ the kerb

Make eye contact with drivers emerging from junctions, particularly if they are turning right

Be seen. Check your lights, and wear high visibility clothes. Put your front light on.

Be aware of the other people who can use the bus lane. Don’t let them force you into things that are unsafe – but do try to make their lives easy as well by letting them past where it’s sensible

Don’t position yourself on the left of lorries and buses at junctions or undertake them on the left. The bus or lorry driver can’t see you, and if they turn left will cut across your path. They also have a different turning circle to a car – you risk getting trapped between the vehicle and roadside barriers

The committee warns that the spiralling costs of motor insurance premiums are due to market dysfunction and the increase in claims for whiplash injury.

The report went on to blame the whole industry of encouraging motorists to put forward claims and an increase in whiplash claims which are costly for insurers’ to challenge.

A revised threshold for whiplash cases should be brought in and if there is no significant decrease in whiplash claims then legislation to make it harder to claim for this type of injury. It also called the process of referral fees and the selling of people’s data as a “merry-go-round”.

The two men, both in their forties, used false addresses to help more than 700 motorists avoid conviction on a range of motoring offences. Suspicions were raised within the 26 Police forces involved after the addresses became more prominent.

250 of the motorists involved in the scam have been convicted and received custodial sentences for their driving offences.

The collection, from the Du Pont family in America, includes a 1903 Indian Camelback in its original, un-restored condition which is expected to fetch £50,000.

The collection also has some British models including a 1951 Vincent Black Shadow with only 3,000-odd miles from new. The auction is in Las Vegas on the 12 January.