Haha, inspections over here are sporadic. They aren't federally required, but some states require them. My state requires them, but most inspection stations only check the lights and tread depth in your tires and slap the inspection sticker on the front windshield. Some are picky, but most aren't.
In the state that neighbors us (Ohio), inspections are not required. You see cars driving down the road with the engine hanging out, or the rear bumper about to fly off. I'm also sure some of you UK and Aussie members have heard how bad our drivers from Ohio are, they are worldly known as the worst drivers.
Sucks to hear about your car, Mark. Hopefully its the £15 gasket and not the £1500 turbo. Good luck in getting it fixed.