----- Original Message -----
From: Kevin Rhodes <krhodes1@maine.rr.com>
> For the edification of the non-UK members on the list - what is the big
> deal about having a "Q" plate anyway? I more-or-less understand the UK
> age-related numberplate system, but why is this considered such a shame,
> and why would the registering body care anyway?
Hi Kevin,
A car is issued with a 'Q' plate when it is a a "vehicle of indeterminate
origin". This has a number of implications, insurance rates for example can be
affected. I'm uncertain what impact it has on the cost of road tax, pre 1973
built vehicles currently enjoying a "Historic Vehicle" tax exemption.
Presumably if a vehicle's age can not be established to the sattisfaction of
the registration authorities then it would remain taxable. There's also the
issue of the owner's right to put age-appropriate numberplates with a black
background on the vehicle. Other constrruction and use regulations might also
come into effect which would not otherwise be relevant to a vehicle above a
certain age, most such regulations not being retrospective in the UK.
Above and beyond all this, the vehicle would simply look wrong - no new car
sold in the UK has ever carried a 'Q' registration. Such a registration will
always have an impact on the re-sale value of a vehicle as most people will be
instantly suspicious of such a registration. Once the 'Q' plate is issued, it
cannot be removed unless the owenr can later prove the provenance of the
vehicle, in which case the original or an appropriate age-related number will
be issued.
Cheers,
Bill.
--
Rarebits4classics
.......just what you've been looking for
PO Box 1232
Calne
Wiltshire
SN11 8WA
United Kingdom
http://www.rarebits4classics.co.uk
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