Britain blowing out of the EU without a deal on certifying vehicles for use in other countries would be disastrous for the UK car industry, MPs have been told.

The warning came as executives from the car industry gave evidence to the Business Select Committee on the impact of Brexit on the sector.

Under current laws, cars certified by the British regulator can be used in other EU states under reciprocal arrangements.

But if the UK were to leave without a deal that continues this arrangement it could mean stopping production at UK car plants until a new certifying authority is found so vehicles can be sold abroad.

Sports car manufacturer Aston Martin warned this would be “semi-catastrophic” for the Warwickshire-based business which produced 3,700 cars last year.