IMI supports call for general mechanic qualification

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has backed calls for a general motoring technician qualification.

Consumer magazine Which? has found that the majority of motorists would have more confidence in their local garage if its mechanics had a recognised industry-standard qualification.

The IMI says that its Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) scheme fits the bill perfectly, as it already benefits from tried and tested methods and backing from the automotive sector.

This is because it was formed directly from customer feedback, according to the executive chair of the IMI Sarah Sillars.

"We welcome the call by Which? to see a recognised, industry-wide qualification introduced for all technicians and we would encourage the industry to support the IMI's voluntary ATA scheme," she added.

The IMI recently called for the automotive industry to address the gender imbalance across the national workforce, as it launched a "groundbreaking" challenge designed to encourage more females to consider technical positions.