MAG argues that refusal to extend CBTs is discriminatory.


MAG argues to extend CBTs

The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) argues that continued refusal to extend Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificates during the lockdown is discriminatory.  In a letter to Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Rachel Maclean MP, MAG asks for redress.

MAG claims that removing a legitimate use of motorcycles by not extending expiring CBTs is unfair.  Motorcyclists are the only road user group facing this restriction for legitimate travel during the lockdown.

In the letter, MAG states:

“For many, including delivery riders and those who access schemes such as Wheels to Work, this is their only viable transport choice for making essential trips, working as a key worker in health or social care, or as a delivery rider delivering items ordered online by those obeying the government guidance to avoid non-essential travel.”

MAG is not asking for a permanent change to the two-year renewal regulation.  The call is for a temporary intervention of similar style to the first lockdown’s extension of MOTs. 

MAG’s Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement, Colin Brown, said:

“We have no data on the numbers of riders being impacted.  But we are receiving many calls from members asking that something be done.  I have spoken directly with the DVSA, and they are unable to provide accurate data on this.  On average, around 6,000 CBTs will expire each month.  Many of those riders will have passed their test or stopped riding.  Some will, however, choose to continue riding without taking a full test – and this is a legitimate choice.  It would be easy to say that the problem affects very few riders, but it is not fair to discriminate against those few.  We do not accept that this would be hard to administer.  If there is a will to avoid this unnecessary discrimination, the Government must find a way to do it.”