I've been told that this would not pass the sva test as it is not a secondary braking system. is this true? if so is there any way around it?

cheers

Yes, it is true.

The way round it is to fit a cable operated handbrake.

must be mechanical

hydraulic is a no no

atb

steve

I haven't looked into this at all as regards SVA, but would a hydraulic handbrake be OK if it worked on a totally independent system to the footbrake?

No - their worry is that any hydraulic system can lose pressure over a period of time, letting off the handbrake.

This isn't a worry in a race car, as the handbrake is rarely on - you certainly wouldn't leave it parked for ages on a hill.

DJ

They pass lorries with them fitted cos the air holds the brakes off not on.

yours, Pete.