Hull MP backs clamper clampdown

Diana Johnson MP has demanded tough new rules to regulate wheel clampers.

The call comes in the Hull North MP's formal submission to the Home Office consultation on the Licensing of Vehicle Immobilisation Businesses. The consultation finished on 23 July.

In her letter to the consultation, Diana Johnson MP calls for:

Clearer signage where clamping is taking place and for clamping operatives to provide better contact details and identification.

A more generous minimum period before a car can be clamped.

Fairer fines for releasing cars from clamps, more in line with local authority parking fines.

A ban on insisting that clamp release fines can be paid in cash only.

An independent appeals process being available for motorists.

Although beyond the scope of this particular consultation, Diana also expressed concern at the ability of wheel-clamping companies to change their names almost overnight.

As part of her submission, Diana passed on a dossier of messages from local people in Hull on the problems that they have experiences at the hands of over-zealous wheel clamping firms.

The submission follows the MP's recent discussions with ministers and the case earlier this year of Hull North constituent Michael Lea, who spent two nights in his van after being clamped by Sector Security Ltd in Hull's Princes Avenue.

Diana Johnson MP said: "I am pleased to contribute to the Government's consultation on changing the rules that govern private clamping firms.

"It is important that we get new rules on clamping that are based on our experiences of the unfair practices that have been exposed.

"I now want to see fair rules to regulate the level of fines allowed, the methods of payment, the standard of signage and how quickly cars can be clamped and removed.

"I also renew my appeal to Hull organisations who employ the services of clamping firms to reflect carefully on whether they want the methods that have been exposed used in their name. Alongside Government regulation, local organisations have a role in driving unfair clamping practices out of Hull."

Ends