Have your say on "unacceptable" clamping companies (From Ealing Times)

Have your say on "unacceptable" clamping companies

2:26pm Friday 8th May 2009 in News reports By Jack Royston

A CONSULTATION on how to stop rogue clampers ripping off the public has been launched by the Government.

The Ealing Times last year began a campaign for tighter regulations on clamping companies that charge drivers hundreds of pounds for minor offences.

The Government has accepted there have been a large number of complaints against some security firms and has pledged to stop what some motorists describe as “legal robbery”.

Alan Campbell, minister for crime reduction, said: "There are clearly a minority of businesses indulging in unacceptable behaviour including unclear signage and excessive fees.

“The Government intends to act to prevent abuses by some vehicle immobilisation businesses and their employees.”

At present clamping companies can charge what they want as long as their tariffs are displayed clearly, and some have hit residents with bills in excess of £800.

Ministers want to hear from readers on how best to regulate the industry, with options presented including forcing clamping firms to enter what is known as a compulsory licensing scheme.

This would impose conditions on clampers, and give regulator the Security Industry Authority (SIA) the power to revoke or suspend the licences of firms that breach them.

Others include making voluntary regulations which some companies already adhere to compulsory, maintaining the status quo and providing government endorsement to a voluntary code of practice.

To take part in the consultation click here.