Tom said: “I have been in contact with many vintage vehicles groups for a number of years who are pressing for this ruling, which is a victory for common sense that reduces unnecessary tests and bureaucracy. From my experience accidents involving historic/vintage vehicles are extremely rare and the majority of owners are meticulous in keeping their vehicles in pristine condition. It was in my opinion an unnecessary test for a vehicle which may have only travelled a few hundred miles in a year and added an additional cost to enthusiasts.
“I am acutely aware of the many different vintage clubs throughout Northern Ireland, many of whom raise vast sums of monies for many local charities. This hobby gives a lot of pleasure to the owners and offers the opportunity to the general public to see vehicles from a bygone era.
“I intend to write to the Environment Minister, Alex Attwood MLA, to request that Northern Ireland adopt a similar approach to that announced at Westminster, whilst retaining the option of seeking to introduce the measure via a Private Members Bill if necessary.”