European governments failed to make the most of schemes

The potential of scrappage schemes around Europe hasn't been maximised, according to BMW board member Ian Robertson.

"I don't think any government made the most of what could have been achieved out of the scrappage system," Robertson told the Daily Telegraph.

"They didn't really stimulate green, efficient cars for example, they stimulated cheap and cheerful cars, largely manufactured outside the European Union.

"Governments had a great opportunity if they stimulated the market. They missed some chances and now there is some fallout."

Daniel Thomas

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