A trade association which started up over 10 years ago, known as The Vehicle Manufacturers Body Repair Council (VMBRC), has donated £2696.33 to BEN. The Council was set up to facilitate a discussion forum for vehicle manufacturers to work on common issues relating to body and accident repair.

In recent times it was felt that the Council could be more effective if its activities were coordinated and directed through the SMMT, the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders Limited. This has now happened and a new working group has been formed. The Terms of Reference are outlined below under Editor's notes.

It was agreed that any funds left over from the VMBRC should be donated to BEN. Alfred Friday, BEN's Assistant Director of Fundraising accepted the cheque today from Paul Rayner, VMBRC Treasurer. In his acknowledgement Mr Friday commented, "On behalf of BEN may I thank you and your members for your support which is very much appreciated at this difficult time for everyone in the industry."

John Procter, Media Manager, SMMT
T: 0207 344 9263
M: 07866 422514
Web: www.smmt.co.uk

Editors' Notes

BEN is the Automotive Industry Charity, the only occupational charity for those who work or have worked in the automotive and related industries. Founded in 1905, the Charity provides practical help, support, advice and friendship to more than 15,000 men and women and their families every year. In addition BEN provides a home to over 350 individuals who reside in one of its four residential centres in the UK and offers day care facilities at its centre in Coventry.

SMMT Vehicle Manufacturers Body Repair Working Group
Terms of Reference

The Vehicle Manufacturers Body Repair Group will in any area that affects Body Repair act to advance the best interests of the members of SMMT by

Monitoring and influencing, UK, European and Global related Legislation.

Monitoring and influencing, UK, European and International Body repair Standards, including UK insurance standards and procedures.

Acting as liaison and contact point for Motor Industry insurance research centre (Thatcham) issues and activities affecting body repair.

Setting out positions agreed by consensus on issues arising from Thatcham, Insurers and other such bodies including governmental departments.

Ensuring that where issues relate to other technical sections the relevant Technical sections are kept advised of said topics and consulted as is appropriate.

Seeking to promote one set of technical requirements on a global scale whether for legislation or standards, reflecting the needs of the different categories of vehicles.

Supporting members in all technical areas concerned with vehicle body repair.

Providing advice and recommendations to the SMMT technical boards and engineering committees.

Raising the profile of the OEMS Body repair outlets and services.