MP Dr Ben Spencer Visits Trident Honda to Discuss Industry Challenges
"Dr Ben Spencer MP (right) with Richard Roberts, Managing Director of Trident Honda"
On Friday 9 May, Trident Honda welcomed Dr Ben Spencer, MP for Runnymede and Weybridge, for a meeting with Managing Director Richard Roberts. The visit, part of the National Franchised Dealers Association’s (NFDA) ongoing parliamentary engagement programme, was also attended by NFDA Chief Executive Sue Robinson.
Discussions focused on several key challenges facing the automotive retail sector:
Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate – The meeting highlighted the need for fiscal incentives to support electric vehicle uptake, particularly in light of recent tax measures such as the Expensive Car Supplement. It was suggested that the Government consider reintroducing the Plug-In Car Grant to encourage consumer adoption. The UK’s 2030 deadline for ending new petrol and diesel car sales—five years ahead of the EU—was noted as ambitious, especially in the absence of upfront incentives and amid concerns about charging infrastructure.
National Insurance Contributions – Concerns were raised regarding the increased costs to businesses resulting from changes announced in the Autumn Budget. For each employee, employers now face an additional annual cost of around £1,000, with particular implications for roles requiring specialist skills, such as EV technicians.
Business Rates – The group also discussed the disparity in treatment between online and high street retailers. From 2026–27, properties with a rateable value over £500,000 will no longer receive relief, effectively subsidising reduced rates for smaller premises. This change represents an estimated £1.3 billion tax increase on commercial property.
Dr Ben Spencer thanked NFDA and Trident Honda for what he described as a productive and informative meeting.
Richard Roberts, Managing Director of Trident Honda, commented:
“It was a pleasure to host Dr Ben Spencer at Trident Honda and to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the automotive sector. Open engagement with government is essential to ensure our industry remains competitive and forward-looking.”