HM CUSTOMS & Excise has given 'temporary approval' for Smart Choice - the consultancy behind the new Internet-based automated fleet transaction system Fleet Web - to trade over the worldwide web.

Fleet Web is being backed by a consortium of major leasing companies - including Dial Contracts, Cowie Interleasing, BCH Vehicle Management Services and PHH Vehicle Management Services - and dealers as well as the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association and the Retail Motor Industry Federation.

Smart Choice director Phil Jackson claimed Customs & Excise approval for Internet trading was 'a significant breakthrough' and had been granted because Fleet Web contained a VAT audit mechanism so business transactions could be easily audited and traced. Trials are expected to start shortly.