Tractor registration figures from the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) have been suspended after it did not receive details from the DVLA for all machines registered.
Howarth, agricultural economist, said following concerns raised by some members, it discovered it had not received details from the DVLA for all machines registered since the start of the year.
Mr Howarth said: “At this stage, we are not certain of the numbers of missing machines but we do know that they are significant.
“We are working urgently with the DVLA to resolve these issues but, in the meantime, we have decided to suspend publication of the registration figures. We hope to be able to resume publication and issue updated figures before the end of the month.
“In the meantime, we apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Systematics, a data processing firm, had previously compiled the data for AEA, but was given notice last year and the contract ended in March.
Sad
Christine Bhatt, owner of Systematics, said it was a ‘very sad state of affairs’ and the statistics had never been suspended or delayed in the 47 years Systematics worked with the AEA and UK manufacturers.
“Of course, we experienced these sorts of issues, but were always very proactive in anticipating such matters and working in close partnership with DVLA and all the manufacturers, thus providing a timely, accurate and consistent service,” she said.
“It is very disappointing. I hope the relevant parties have the courage and determination to put this right.”