Had a nasty shock today.  I currently have a Land Rover at the other
side of Europe waiting for me to transport out a quarter chassis and
the MIG after an altercation with a log tractor.  It was declared SORN
just over a year ago and I came to declare it again today only to be
told it was being taken off the register as being 'permanently
exported'.

Apparently DVLA have decided to interpret the statute so as to decide
your intent for you after twelve months absence it aint British any
more . . .  I protested that I had no intention of permanently
exporting it and its being taken off the register created multiple
problems.  Insurance, movement, sudden imposition of import tax in the
location where statelessness happened etc.  I'm in double doo doo as
where it is is an ex Soviet area where the law prohibits the
registration of a right hand drive vehicle.

I also have two friends presently on expeditions where their itineries
mean they will be away for more than a year.  To suddenly be presented
with a bill for import duties in the many African countries where huge
sums are charged could become a real problem for them.

So . . . be warned and if this is likely to affect you kick up a fuss
with your MP.  I can't believe that Parliament actually meant this it
sounds like yet another example of an Agency / Department
'interpreting' for their own convenience.

In the meantime I have a 'stateless vehicle' a likely import tax bill
to pay and rather unhelpful, unsympathetic and dismissive public
employees who are paid by my taxes reading my mind and telling me it
is permanently exported . . .

Expeditioners beware, don't be gone long!

Lurch