WHAT DOES BLOCK EXEMPTION MEAN?
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Block Exemption regulation 1400/2002 comes into force on 1 October 2003.
ED Truck manufacturers will not be able to turn down reasonable applications to run parts and service dealerships.
• Manufacturers will still be able to refuse sales dealerships on the grounds that the area is already covered.
• Parts and service dealerships will be able to take on several franchises, giving customers more choice at the same site. • Will it mean cheaper trucks? Unlikely; but the jury is still out on that issue.
REDRESS If a manufacturer breaches the new Block Exemption regulations by, for example, refusing to let a suitable haulier become an authorised repairer, then the haulier can take action to enforce his rights.
Contact: Office of Fair Trading (0207 21 1 8000) wwvv.oft.gov.uk), or the EC's Competition Directorate (0207 973 1992; www,europe.org.uk).