Over future editions I will share further articles on the world of classic cars. I hope to give a broad and varied view of the classic car scene. If you would like to read about anything in particular, please email me at harry@jagxk.com
Whether you are celebrating, commiserating, or utterly exhausted by the results of our recent general election, it is hard to ignore the fact that it is likely to bring with it some big changes. You may be wondering why a classic car restorer is concerning himself with politics enough to write about it, but as someone who works in the industry, employs ten specialists, and is at the top of a supply chain which creates work for many other local businesses, I keep a keen eye on the future of the industry. I have discussed in previous articles the importance of passing on these skills, training future generations, and keeping these cars relevant. I have also written about the environment and how our industry can and must adapt to become more sustainable as part of the green economy of the future.
As part of the Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA), we have been working hard to forge a future for the industry, and this requires support and understanding from the government. The classic car industry has a turnover of upward of £18 billion a year and as such contributes a significant sum to the Treasury each year. Despite this, many folks coming into the new government may not be aware of the significance of our sector. It is vital to us that our industry is not hit by the unintended consequences of legislation intended to reduce carbon emissions.
At this stage, the early signs are hugely encouraging. Within the King’s Speech was an announcement that they intend to “Introduce the Industrial Strategy Council, encourage investment in new technologies and skills, support sustainable fuel production, and reform the apprenticeship levy.” Key for us here is the investment in skills and the hope that we will get more support to provide apprenticeships. Combining this with more support for sustainable fuels, which really are vital to keeping internal combustion engines usable in the future, I feel there is every reason to be optimistic about the future of classic cars.
