The SMMT is calling on the Government to “give people the confidence to buy” after revealing new van registrations were down 50% year-on-year.

And February’s figures showed new van registrations were down 58% compared to the same month in 2008.

“The UK commercial vehicle business is under intense pressure with the slump in UK demand for vans,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.

“These are unique circumstances in which the government must help. We need direct, positive action to give people the confidence to buy now.”