Britain sees declining transportation as recession continues

• Source: Xinhua
• [09:14 May 13 2009]
• Comments

DROPPING CAR SALE

Due to financial difficulties, Britons are more likely to continue driving their old cars.

Sales of new cars have fallen significantly, with a 24-percent fall in April compared to the same period last year.

It adds to the grim news for the British car manufacturing industry, which has seen 11 months of continued shrinkage in sales.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the number of new cars sold in Britain in April was 133,475, the lowest number since 1991.

However, SMMT Chief Executive Paul Everitt remained positive, saying the industry was continuing to show strength and resilience in the face of the harsh economic climate.

"Despite the tough conditions, (the) industry is hopeful that its prospects will improve in the coming months and the steps it has taken will provide the basis for a sustained recovery once growth returns," he said.

"The UK motor industry remains of strategic importance and will play a key part in generating jobs and prosperity into the future," he added.