Introducing MOT tests for Manx vehicles would come at "significant cost" to both the public and the government, the infrastructure minister has said.

Privately-owned Isle of Man-registered vehicles that are more than three years old are not subject to an annual roadworthiness check, such as the UK's MOT test.

But vehicles imported to the island that are more than three years old are subject to a one-off examination at the vehicle test centre.

In a Tynwald written answer, Michelle Haywood said: "The evidence that periodic vehicle testing would improve safety is limited."

Arbory, Castletown and Malew member Jason Moorhouse had put the question of MOT testing to the minister.

He wanted to know whether the system would be introduced following the opening of a new vehicle test centre.

But Haywood said: "The introduction of MOT testing would come with a significant cost to the public directly in paying for tests at garages and to government in regulating and administering an MOT system."

"The current government policy is not to introduce such testing on the island," she added.

While MOTs are not being considered, the Manx police force undertakes various random car checks throughout the year.

Haywood added that there was mandatory testing for higher risk vehicles, including heavy goods vehicles, taxis and buses.