In a written statement to the House on 15 August 2013, the then Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, Stephen Hammond MP, announced that the Department of Transport would undertake market engagement and a procurement competition to find a commercial partner to form a joint venture to grow the work of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA).

I now inform the House that the competition has not been successful in identifying a suitable joint venture that would achieve the objectives of both partners.

The VCA will continue to provide vehicle testing and certification services, as it does at present. The department will consult with a wide range of stakeholders before considering any alternative proposals.