MOT testing centres have been urged to raise their game as the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) now has greater access to information.

The computerisation of MOT testing allows VOSA to closely monitor the activity of testing centres.

The move is intended to raise standards, combat fraud and improve safety.

Stephen Coles, head of MOT operations at the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF), said testing centres should be aware that they are being watched.

"VOSA can access your test information whenever they choose, without needing to visit your test station," Mr Coles said.

"You won't even know that they are checking you.

"The site manager should obtain a test log report for every month and cross reference each test completed against a job number or other means to ensure that there are no unaccounted tests," he added.

VOSA intends to use the new system to begin carrying out phone checks for low-risk sites.

Any test centres that fail to provide accurate and reliable information could have their risk status adjusted.

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